Common Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a perennial flowering plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Urticaceae family. It is one of the most well-known and widespread wild plants in the UK, found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows, and disturbed areas.

Common Nettle typically thrives in nutrient-rich soils and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is often found in fertile soils with ample nitrogen content.

Nutrient requirements for Common Nettle are moderate, and it can adapt to a variety of soil types, including loamy, clay, and sandy soils.

In terms of predators, Common Nettle faces few threats in the UK. Grazing animals such as cattle and sheep may consume it in small quantities, but it is generally avoided due to its stinging hairs, which release formic acid upon contact.

The lifespan of Common Nettle can vary, but individual plants typically persist for several years, spreading through rhizomes and seeds.

Culturally, Common Nettle has various references in UK folklore and traditional practices. It has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb, food source, and textile fibre. Additionally, Common Nettle has symbolic significance in some cultures, representing resilience, protection, and transformation.

An interesting fact about Common Nettle is its nutritional value. Despite its reputation as a nuisance due to its stinging hairs, Common Nettle is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it a valuable addition to soups, teas, and other culinary dishes.