Nettleleaf Noseburn — Tragia urticifolia Michaux

Nettleleaf Noseburn (Tragia urticifolia)

Nettleleaf Noseburn is found in dry woods and rocky areas, particularly in areas with high pH soil, over calcareous or mafic bedrock. The leaves resemble those of stinging nettle (Urtica), down to the stinging hairs. If you try to smell the tiny yellow flowers, the stinging hairs on the leaves and stem will make your nose burn.

Granville Co., NC 5/20/2012.

Nettleleaf Noseburn (Tragia urticifolia)

Granville Co., NC 5/20/2012.

Nettleleaf Noseburn (Tragia urticifolia)

Granville Co., NC 5/20/2012.

Nettleleaf Noseburn (Tragia urticifolia)

Granville Co., NC 5/20/2012.

All photographs and text ©2013 by Will Cook unless otherwise noted.