Nettleleaf noseburn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nettleleaf noseburn |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Tragia
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| Species: |
urticifolia
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The Tragia urticifolia, often called nettleleaf noseburn, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the spurge family, which is a large group of plants. This plant grows naturally in eastern North America, especially in the southeastern United States. You can usually find it in dry woodlands that have rocky or sandy soil. It prefers soil that is rich in calcium or other specific minerals.
Contents
What is Nettleleaf Noseburn?
The nettleleaf noseburn is a plant that grows upright. It can be a perennial herb (meaning it lives for more than two years) or a small subshrub. Its leaves are shaped like triangles with a pointed tip. The base of the leaves can be flat or heart-shaped. The small stalks that connect the leaves to the stem, called petioles, are usually about 3 to 15 millimeters long.
Flowers and How to Spot Them
This plant produces small yellow flowers. You can see these flowers from late spring all the way through summer. The nettleleaf noseburn looks a lot like another plant called Tragia betonicifolia. However, you can tell them apart by looking closely at their flowers. The nettleleaf noseburn has longer flower stalks (called pedicels) on its male flowers, about 1.5 to 2 millimeters long. These stalks are also spread out more evenly along the flower cluster, which is known as a raceme.
Why Does it Sting?
One of the most interesting things about the nettleleaf noseburn is its stinging hairs. These tiny hairs are found on the plant's leaves and stems. If you accidentally touch them, they can cause a very painful sting on your skin. It's a good idea to be careful and avoid touching this plant if you see it!
Images for kids
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A close-up of the nettleleaf noseburn plant.
