Japanese False Nettle

(Boehmeria japonica)

Japanese False Nettle (Boehmeria japonica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Boehmeria japonica, commonly known as Japanese False Nettle, is a perennial herb native to East Asia, specifically China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including forest margins, stream banks, and shaded moist areas, often forming dense colonies. Typically, it reaches a height of 1-2 meters with a similar spread. Japanese False Nettle has green, serrated leaves and small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers that bloom in summer. While not known for showy flowers, it has an attractive foliage that adds texture to garden settings.

Japanese False Nettle is valued for its adaptability to different moisture levels and its ability to thrive in both shaded and partially open conditions. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, as ground cover, and in riparian restoration projects. In cultivation, it prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from part shade to full shade. Gardeners should be cautious as it can spread aggressively by rhizomes, potentially becoming a nuisance. Regular maintenance may be required to keep it in check.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Forest margins, stream banks, and shaded moist areas

Other Names

Common Names: Japanese Boehmeria, Japanese False Nettle

Scientific Names: , Boehmeria japonica, Boehmeria allophylla, Boehmeria chingshuishaniana, Boehmeria grandifolia, Boehmeria hatusimae, Boehmeria japonica var. appendiculata, Boehmeria japonica var. longispica, Boehmeria japonica var. tricuspis, Boehmeria longispica

GBIF Accepted Name: