Feel the burn

Urtica doica, June 28, 2023

Common & scientific name

Stinging nettle, Urtica dioica

Family

Nettle, Urticaceae

Location

Difficult, 8,100’

Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact

A native plant found only occasionally on the Pass, usually at the base of rock cliffs or slopes where it can find water. The hollow, stinging hairs on its leaves and stems act like hypodermic needles, injecting histamine and other chemicals that produce a stinging sensation when touched. Use water to alleviate the sting!