Family: nettles (Urticaceae)
Flowering time: June–September
Size: 30–150 cm
Habitat: shores, forest edges, gardens, tall herbaceous plants
The upright and usually unbranched stem and leaves of the large nettle (Urtica dioica) are covered with bristly hairs and stinging hairs, which contain an irritant substance. This is released when the delicate stinging hairs break upon contact. Coarsely serrated, oppositely arranged, ovate-lanceolate leaves are long-pointed.
The large nettle is widespread and common throughout Slovenia, thriving in soils rich in nutrients.
Young leaves can be prepared as spinach or used to make soup, dried leaves are added to herbal teas.
