The flowers of Smooth Hedge Nettle are visited by a variety of native bees, butterflies, and skippers seeking nectar (illinoiswildflower.info). It serves as a host plant for 12 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). As a member of the mint family, Smooth Hedge Nettle can spread readily and form colonies under favorable conditions, so thoughtful placement is recommended. Its bitter foliage makes it largely unpalatable to deer and other mammalian herbivores.
Photo credit: Laura Flohr Reynolds
The flowers of Smooth Hedge Nettle are visited by a variety of native bees, butterflies, and skippers seeking nectar (illinoiswildflower.info). It serves as a host plant for 12 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). As a member of the mint family, Smooth Hedge Nettle can spread readily and form colonies under favorable conditions, so thoughtful placement is recommended. Its bitter foliage makes it largely unpalatable to deer and other mammalian herbivores.
Photo credit: Laura Flohr Reynolds
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full-Partial
Soil Moisture: Medium/wet – Medium
Height: 1-3 feet
Plant Spacing: 1-2 feet
Bloom Time: June-August
Bloom Color: Pink and White
Advantages: Pollinator Favorite, Deer Resistant
Host Plant: Variegated Fritillary and 11 other species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
