Common Name(s)	Stinging Nettle
Latin Name	Urtica Dioica
Description	The plants can grow up to 1 metre ( 3 feet ) tall forming dense clumps. The leaves are ridged, coarse and pointed and are covered in stiff little hairs which sting. The flowers are green, spiky and packed close together, drooping down.
Hazards	Although nettles can be eaten when cooked like spinach, it is the stinging hairs on the uncooked plant which cause the problem.
Effects	When in contact with the plant the skin reddens and little white bumps appear on the skin feeling very sore, turning to a constant itching which could last for a couple of days.
Flowering Period	Late spring through summer.
Location	Woods, hedgerows, waste or neglected land. Almost anywhere.