nettle
0.3 - 1.2m tall plant (depending on situation), covered with stinging hairs. Leaves heart shaped, toothed and opposite. Flowers green, in catkins.
There are three naturalised and four native species of nettle in NZ. Perennial nettle and tree nettle are commonest.
Common in cultivated ground all over.
Histamine, 5 hydroxytryptamine and acetylcholine in the sting. U. urens has a less powerful sting than other common nettles.
All species may be affected.
Mild pain and irritation.
Very unlikely to be fatal.
History
Other causes of dermatitis.
None necessary - self limiting.
Good.
Connor, HE, The Poisonous plants in New Zealand, 2nd ed.,1977, Government Publications Ltd., Wellington
