California nettle
Urtica serrafam. Urticaceae
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Pl. 6D56 — Urtica serra
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IOverview
Overview
California nettle, scientifically known as Urtica serra, is a perennial plant native to the regions of Guatemala and various areas in Mexico including Central, Gulf, Northeast, and Southwest Mexico. This plant thrives in moist environments with light soil types—sandy, medium, or clay—and requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Known both for its edible and medicinal properties, California nettle is valued for its leaves and shoots, which can be consumed. Its distinctive features include a height of up to 1.5 meters and the ability to grow in diverse soil conditions, making it adaptable to various habitats within its native range.
Quick answers
What is California nettle?
California nettle, scientifically known as Urtica serra, is a perennial plant native to the regions of Guatemala and various areas in Mexico including Central, Gulf, Northeast, and Southwest Mexico.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming the mind and reducing anxiety.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
California nettle thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial growing up to 1.5 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the plant gets adequate moisture while providing it with well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Propagate via division or seed sowing. Harvest edible parts such as leaves and shoots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow California nettle for the first time
8steps
Start with California nettle to gain experience in growing perennials.
- 1
What you'll need
A small shovel, a watering can or hose, and some mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, either sandy, medium, or clay.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young seedlings from a nursery or sow seeds directly in the ground after danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Prune back any dead or overgrown parts as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth emerges. This encourages a bushier plant and more leaves for harvesting.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, not providing enough mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:CompostDyeFiberHairAnimal feed
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Americas1 region
native (1)Guatemala
Broader regions
native:Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southwest
IXSpecimen gallery
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Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Urticaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Urticaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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