Urtica dioica gracilis * Stinging Nettles

Urtica dioica gracilis or Stinging Nettles is not the plant you want to accidentally brush against. The Stinging Nettles leaves are edible once cooked and highly nutritious. The sting has been used medicinally for arthritis. Urtica dioica gracilis grows in moist areas around ponds or streams but will grow in many dry shaded locations. Urtica dioica gracilis is an important plant for attracting wildlife. Tricolored blackbirds in particular are found with this plant. A number of butterflies including the Red Admiral and Painted Lady are attracted to the Stinging Nettles during their long blooming season. Urtica dioica gracilis has tresses of small white flowers from late Spring through to Fall.