Chinese Grass

(Boehmeria nivea)

Chinese Grass (Boehmeria nivea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Boehmeria nivea, commonly known as Chinese Grass or White Ramie, is a herbaceous perennial native to Eastern Asia, found in forest margins, stream banks, and wet places. It grows to a height of 1.0–2.5 m (3 ft 3 in – 8 ft 2 in) and is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves that are 7–15 cm (2.8–5.9 in) long and 6–12 cm (2.4–4.7 in) broad. The leaves are notably white on the underside due to dense, small hairs, which give the plant a distinctive silvery appearance. Unlike stinging nettles, the hairs of Boehmeria nivea do not sting. The plant does not produce showy flowers, but its foliage is valued for its texture and color.

White Ramie is highly regarded for its fibers, which are among the strongest natural fibers and have been used for over 6,000 years, primarily in fabric production. In gardens, it can be used as a textural plant in borders or as a specimen plant for its unique foliage. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers medium amounts of water and well-drained soils. While it is not particularly prone to diseases, it can become invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Subshrub
  • Height: 8-10 feet
  • Width: 8-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control

Natural Habitat

Forest margins, stream banks, and wet places in Eastern Asia

Other Names

Common Names: White Ramble, Ramie, China-Grass, Chinese Silkplant, Ramio, Ortiga Blanca, Ramie De Chine, Rami, 苧麻, Mosipul

Scientific Names: , Boehmeria nivea, Boehmeria nipononivea, Boehmeria nivea var. tenacissima, Boehmeria nivea var. concolor, Boehmeria nivea var. nipononivea, Boehmeria nivea f. nipononivea, Boehmeria nivea var. nivea, Boehmeria nivea subsp. nipononivea, Boehmeria nipononivea var. concolor

GBIF Accepted Name: Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaudich.