THE STINGING NETTLE HAS A MULTITUDE OF BENEFITS

PREPPER PLANT ADVISOR

BY CHRISTOPHER NYERGES

Name: Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Stinging nettle is a member of the Nettle family, which includes about 700 species found worldwide. The genus Urtica has 45 members, and most are very similar to the stinging nettle described here.

Description

This annual plant typically arises in the spring after the rains and as the snow thaws. It produces a single stalk that can reach up to several feet tall. The leaves are oblong with toothed margins and taper to a point.

The entire plant, leaves and stalk, are covered with hairs that will cause a stinging irritation if you brush up against them. The tops of the leaves have a shiny appearance.

Areas Found

Though this European native does best around wet and riparian areas, it can be commonly found in wilderness areas, gardens, backyards, and in farm lands. This plant can be found in almost all 50 states and Canadian provinces.