Hesperocnide tenella
🍃leaf (1)

Hesperocnide tenella

Western stingingnettle · Western nettle

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: partial_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
15–35 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 8–10
Click count
227
Observations
15

Description

Source: leafsnap

Hesperocnide tenella, commonly known as the western nettle or stinging nettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Urticaceae family. Native to western North America, this plant thrives in various habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The western nettle can grow up to 1 meter tall and features a branching stem adorned with small, greenish-white flowers. Its heart-shaped leaves have serrated edges and are covered in stinging hairs that can irritate the skin upon contact. Native American tribes have utilized Hesperocnide tenella for medicinal purposes, such as treating arthritis pain and skin conditions. Additionally, it serves as a crucial food source for a variety of wildlife species, including deer, rabbits, birds, and insects. Despite its stinging hairs, which necessitate the use of protective gear or gloves when handling or harvesting for medicinal purposes, Hesperocnide tenella plays an essential role in the ecosystem by providing nourishment for wildlife species.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

The western nettle thrives in environments similar to its native habitat, which offer regular moisture. To maintain its water balance, it needs to be watered weekly. During its growth season, it requires even more water to ensure optimal foliage development.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Partial sun

Western nettle comes from habitats with dappled light, like forest understories or rocky spots that offer natural shade. It grows well in partial sun but can also tolerate full sun conditions.

Ideal: Partial sun
🌡️ Temperature 15–35°C

Western nettle can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be constrained by different combinations of moisture and heat. It grows best in warm summer conditions with adequate rainfall or watering. Prolonged stretches of cloudy, rainy weather and extended high temperatures can increase the chance of Western nettle dying. In winter, appropriate protection from cold can raise the plant's survival rate.

Ideal temperature: 15–35°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Western nettle responds well to regular, dilute fertilizer applications to encourage healthy leaf development. Fertilize about once a month during the summer. Nitrogen is essential for foliage, and providing nitrogen-rich sources helps Western nettle prosper.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

The Western nettle thrives in shaded, moist environments and should be pruned from early to late spring. To encourage healthy growth, remove dead stems and thin out dense areas to improve air circulation and light exposure. Proper pruning helps manage its spread and ensures the plant's overall vigor. For detailed techniques, consult horticultural guides.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Hesperocnide
Family
Urticaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-10
Mature Height
30 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
15 cm to 30 cm
Leaf Color
Light Green, Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
0.13 cm
Bloom Time
Early spring, Mid spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late spring, Early summer
Native Area
Mexico

Tags (5)

Common Names (2)

en Western stingingnettle
en Western nettle