3-88 Urticaceae, nettle family

Marian C. Munro; Ruth E. Newell; Nicholas M. Hill

Authors

Marian C. Munro Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS
Ruth E. Newell E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Nicholas M. Hill Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Keywords:

Magnoliophyte, nettle family, Boehmeria, Pilea, Laportea, Urtica, stinging nettles, clearweed

Abstract

Mostly tropical with nearly about 800species, (sensu stricto according to Zomlefer), only four genera reach Nova Scotia. Known for their stinging hairs, all but one of ours is so armed. Plants are generally dioecious, rarely with complete flowers. Petals are absent; calyx is lobed. Stamens 3–5, equal in number to the calyx lobes. Ovary is solitary, in superior position. Fruit is an achene most commonly, enclosed within the calyx. The leaves are opposite or alternate, simple, toothed and with stipules.

Author Biographies

Marian C. Munro, Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS

Curator of Botany (NSPM)

Ruth E. Newell, E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Curator of the E. C. Smith Herbarium (ACAD)

Nicholas M. Hill, Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Director; Adjunct Professor.