Family, Nettle. Flowers, in spikes. Stamens and sepals 4, in pairs; the two outer sepals smaller, all placed around a rudimentary pistil. Leaves, opposite, ovate, heart-shaped, downy underneath. Summer.

The whole plant is furnished with stinging hairs. A small gland, secreting a poisonous fluid, is at the base of each hair. If one be touched, never so lightly, I can testify from experience that the hand will burn and sting for hours afterward. Height, 2 or 3 feet. Common around old outbuildings and barns, and in waste places generally.

Two other species may be mentioned; neither of them quite so vicious.