Urtica angustifolia (Urticaceae)

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Urtica angustifolia
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The Urtica angustifolia plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea. It is a member of the Urticaceae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Urtica angustifolia
Family:  Urticaceae
Author:  Fisch.

Known Hazards:  The leaves of the plants have stinging hairs, causing irritation to the skin[21, 200]. This action is neutralized by heat so the cooked leaves are perfectly safe and nutritious[200]. However, only young leaves should be used because older leaves develop gritty particles called cystoliths which act as an irritant to the kidneys[172].

Mature Height:  1.5   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Woods in mountains all over Japan[58]. Riversides and mixed montane woods, springs, rocky screes and occasionally by dwellings and in waste places[74].

Edible Uses: Young leaves - cooked[105, 177]. They make an excellent spinach or can be added to soups and stews[K]. A very nutritious food, high in vitamins and minerals. Only use the young leaves and wear stout gloves when harvesting them to prevent getting stung. Although the fresh leaves have stinging hairs, thoroughly drying or cooking them destroys these hairs. Nettle beer is brewed from the young shoots[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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