Himalayan Nettle (Girardiana diversifolia)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have almost no information on this species and do not know if it can be grown outdoors in Britain. However, since it is an annual there is a good chance of success especially if the plants are started early in a greenhouse.

Propagation

Seed - sow early spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in May. If you have sufficient seed it might be worthwhile trying a sowing outdoors in situ in the middle of spring. Division of roots.

Edible uses

Young leaves and inflorescences - cooked as a green vegetable.

Medicinal uses

A decoction of the roots and basal stems is mixed with wine and drunk as a cure for malignant boils. The fresh juice of the leaves is applied externally in the treatment of headaches and swollen joints. The ashes of the plant are applied externally in the treatment of ringworm and eczema.

Material uses

A fibre is obtained from the stem. It is fine and silky and is used for making coarse cloth, ropes and twine.

Habitat

Waste ground and shrubberies, 800 - 2700 metres in the Himalayas.

Native range

E. Asia - India to Malaysia.