Introduced
perennial native to Eurasia, Stinging Nettle thrives in nitrogen-rich
soils of moist woodlands, creekbeds and pastures. Named for silica-tipped
stinging hairs on stems and leaves, nettle blooms June-Sept in tiny
green male and female flowers borne on separate plants and wind
pollinated.
Grow specs: Direct seed in spring, or late
winter in cold frame in rich, moist high nitrogen soil under part
shade. Using gloves, thin to 1ft. Hardy in all US zones. Good companion
for other herbs, increasing their oil content. Attracts butterfly
caterpillars.
Eaten cooked as delicious potherb high in iron
and calcium, Stinging Nettle's tonic history dates back to Dioscorides
in 1st century. Medicinally used as warming tea for anemia, arthritis,
poor circulation, allergies, kidney and urinary ailments.
$3.00
Return to North American Indigenous Seed List
|