False Nettle

(Boehmeria cylindrica)

False Nettle (Boehmeria cylindrica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Boehmeria cylindrica, commonly known as False Nettle or Bog Hemp, is a perennial herb native to North America and Tropical and Subtropical America. It typically grows up to 63 inches (160 centimeters) tall with a bushy habit and bears opposite leaves that are serrated and textured. The greenish-white flowers, which are not particularly showy, appear in summer and are wind-pollinated. This species is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants.

False Nettle is valued for its role in supporting wildlife, particularly as a host plant for the larvae of several butterfly species, including the Eastern Comma, Question Mark, and Red Admiral. It thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas with consistently moist soil, making it suitable for naturalistic plantings and restoration projects in wetland areas. It is also used in gardens that aim to support native pollinators and beneficial insects. While it is not aggressive, it can spread by rhizomes and self-seeding, which should be considered when planting in smaller spaces or near cultivated beds.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.75-3.5 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Brown, Green, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to North America and Tropical and Subtropical America

Other Names

Common Names: False Nettle, Smallspike False Nettle, Mora De Piedras

Scientific Names: , Boehmeria cylindrica, Boehmeria atrovirens, Boehmeria austrina, Boehmeria cylindrica, Boehmeria cylindrica f. cuneata, Boehmeria cylindrica subsp. phyllostachya, Boehmeria cylindrica var. brachystachys, Boehmeria cylindrica var. cylindrica, Boehmeria cylindrica var. drummondiana

GBIF Accepted Name: