The common nettle (Urtica dioica) and the annual nettle (Urtica urens) are related and look similar. They share similar habitats and can be seen growing together. I would like to explain below how they can be distinguished.
Differences
It is easy to distinguish between flowering plants. The inflorescences of Urtica dioica (common nettle) hang from the plant in long panicles. The flower panicles of Urtica urens (annual nettle) are significantly shorter.
The common nettle grows as a perennial and can reach a height of over two metres. Its habit is either upright or overhanging. It branches out and can look like a small shrub in autumn.
The annual stinging nettle only grows up to 60 centimetres tall. It grows as an annual or overwinters as an annual. It has an upright habit and branches only slightly.
Similarities
The leaves and shoots of both nettles are covered with stinging hairs. The leaves are pointed, ovate and serrated at the edges.
Categories: Wildflowers |
