Mountain Nettle

Urtica gracilenta is a species of annual herb in the nettle family, Urticaceae. It is also known as mountain nettle.

Urtica gracilenta is native to the contiguous United States.

It is found in the shade beneath trees along streams. The plant has opposite, nearly orbicular leaves that are cordate and evenly dentate. The stems and pedicels are densely armed with stinging hairs.

Urtica gracilenta is known for its small stinging hairs that inject irritating chemicals and cause a skin rash upon contact. The plant can cause severe irritation and even numbness.

Urtica gracilenta has traditionally been used as a cooked green as well as in teas and ale. In Libya, the leaves have been used in a medicinal tea or decoction as diuretic and antidiabetic therapies and to treat stomach disorders.