Urtica urens (annual nettle)

Leaf type: Ovate, elliptic with serrated margins
Phyllotaxis: Opposite
Colour: Green
Life cycle: Annual to biennial

Leaf (upper side)

Habitus & biology

Urtica urens grows as an annual or biennial, its seeds can germinate in spring and summer. This means that it can also be seen flowering in winter in mild regions. Depending on the location, it can reach heights of 10 to 60 centimetres.

Urtica urens habitus — Habitus of flowering nettles in February. The leaves of burr chervil (Anthriscus caucalis) can be seen below.

The ovoid to elliptical leaves with serrated margins grow up to five centimetres long.

Leaves and shoots are covered with fine stinging hairs.

Urtica urens in snow — Being covered in snow for a few days does not harm Urtica urens.

Distribution & habitates

Urtica urens in front of a house wall in February. Petty spurge and Persian speedwell can also be seen.

The native distribution area includes most European and Asian countries and extends as far as north-east Africa (source). Urtica urens can occur as an introduced species in Australia, South America and North America.

Urtica urens grows along roadsides, in front of walls and houses, in gardens, meadows, on dams and embankments and also copes well with urban locations.

Botany

This member of the Urticaceae family has several common names like annual nettle, dwarf nettle, small nettle and burning nettle.