Canada Nettle

(Laportea canadensis)

Canada Nettle (Laportea canadensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Laportea canadensis, commonly known as Canada Nettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to moist woodlands, thickets, and riparian zones across Eastern North America and Mexico. It typically grows from tuberous roots to a height of 30 to 150 centimeters and can form small clumps through rhizomatous growth. The plant is characterized by its foliage and stems covered with both stinging and non-stinging hairs. Canada Nettle produces inconspicuous whitish-green flowers from spring to early fall. The stinging hairs contain irritants that cause a painful burning sensation upon contact with skin, potentially leaving barbs and causing redness and blisters that may last several days.

Canada Nettle is not commonly cultivated due to its stinging hairs but can be used in naturalized areas or wildlife gardens where its ability to attract butterflies and serve as a host plant for their larvae is valued. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and prefers moist, fertile soils with varying drainage capabilities. While not typically used in formal garden settings, it can be beneficial in erosion control due to its rhizomatous growth. Gardeners should handle this plant with care and wear protective gloves to avoid its painful sting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 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, Fast

Common Uses

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

Natural Habitat

native to moist woodlands, thickets, and riparian zones across Eastern North America and Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Canadian Woodnettle, Canada Lettuce, Canada Woodnettle, Canadian Wood-Nettle, Canada Wood Nettle, Wood Nettle, Wood-Nettle, Laportéa Du Canada, Ortie Des Bois, Ortie Du Canada, Kanadanässla

Scientific Names: , Laportea canadensis, Urtica canadensis, Urticastrum divaricatum, Fleurya canadensis, Urtica divaricata, Urtica pustulata, Laportea canadensis var. pustulata, Laportea divaricata, Fleurya divaricata

GBIF Accepted Name: Laportea canadensis (L.) Wedd.