Stinging nettle

Description

The bast fibers obtained from the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica, Urtica ferox, or Urtica gracilis) plant. The stinging nettle, or great nettle, plant has been grown in Scandinavia for centuries and its fibers were used for making sails. The stems of the stinging nettle plants produce a light-color bast fiber that is soft and strong. It is used for Twine, Rope, Canvas, and Sailcloth. Nettle fibers are also used as substitutes for Flax and Hemp.

For stinging nettle fiber identification, see FRIL:_Stinging_Nettle

Synonyms and Related Terms

Urtica dioica; Urtica ferox; Urtica gracilis; ortiga (Esp.); great nettle; common nettle, California nettle, slender nettle

Risks

The stems and leaves contain formic acid. It is a skin irritant and may produce a severe allergic reaction.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Fiber diameter is small ranging from 10-75 microns
• Cell wall is thick (similar to linen)
• Microfibrillar spin = S
• Microscopic examination shows frequent calcium oxalate druses in parenchyma

Resources and Citations

• Henry Hodges, Artifacts: An Introduction to Early Materials and Technology, Ronald P. Frye, Kingston, Canada, 1988
• A.Lucas, J.R.Harris, Ancient Egyptian Materials and Industries, Edward Arnold Publishers Ltd., London, 4th edition, 1962
• The American Heritage Dictionary or Encarta, via Microsoft Bookshelf 98, Microsoft Corp., 1998