Crops Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle is usually considered to be an invasive and unpleasant weed, very common in many parts of Europe. It has in the past been used both as a food, since the leaves are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and as a source of stem fibre, which has been utilised in rope, cloth, and paper at different times. Further consideration is now being given to its potential for fibre production: yields of up to 8 t per ha of dry matter have been recorded, from a species which should be easy to establish and remain in production for several years.

This entry forms part of the publication Crops for Industry and Energy in Europe

References:

Brenchley, W E (1920) Weeds of Farm Land. London: Longmans, Green & Co.

Chisholm, C J (Ed) (1994) Towards a UK Research Strategy For Alternative Crops. Silsoe: Silsoe Research Institute.

Davison, M W & Martin, N V (Eds) (1981) Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of Britain. London: The Readers Digest Association Ltd.

Mabey, R (1996) Flora Britannica. London: Sinclair-Stevenson .

Perry, F (1972) Flowers of the World. London: Hamlyn Press.

Relevant EC funded projects:
FAIR Proposal 3784