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Dendrocnide spp.
South-East Asia, Australia, and the Pacific
Overview
Dendrocnide spp. is a genus of about 37 species of trees and shrubs in the nettle family (Urticaceae), found in rainforests of South-East Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands. They range from understorey shrubs 3-10 feet (1-3 m) tall to forest trees reaching 100-130 feet (30-40 m), such as the giant stinging tree D. excelsa. The large, heart-shaped leaves, 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) long, have toothed margins and, like the stems and fruit, are covered in stiff silica hairs. These hairs act as hypodermic needles that inject a long-lasting neurotoxin on contact, causing intense pain that can recur for weeks or months; D. moroides, the gympie-gympie, is the most painful species. Small greenish flowers are borne in branched clusters, followed by fleshy, mulberry-like fruit that is, in some species, edible once the stinging hairs are removed. The plants colonise rainforest clearings, landslips, and creek banks, growing quickly in disturbed gaps. Their sting makes them hazardous in gardens and along trails, and contact with skin, or even inhaling shed hairs, can cause severe reactions. They are grown only in botanical and research collections, where they are clearly labelled.
Native Range
Native to South-East Asia, eastern and northern Australia, and islands of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, in tropical and subtropical rainforest, forest margins, and clearings.Suggested Uses
Grown only in botanical gardens, rainforest restoration, and research collections, where the trees are labelled and kept well away from paths. They have no general garden use because of the severe sting, though some species yield edible fruit and strong bast fibre in their native regions.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 130'
Width/Spread6' - 50'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs mainly in the warmer, wetter months and varies with species and climate. The small greenish flower clusters are inconspicuous and are followed within weeks by fleshy fruit. In tropical climates flowering and fruiting can occur over much of the year.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight