Boehmeria tricuspis - False Nettle

Boehmeria tricuspis is part of a group of perennial plants close to nettles but without the sting.  Cultivated for their lush vegetation, it has a modest habit, but its foliage is a vibrant green, finely cut into a trident shape, with a texture that is both delicate and astonishing. Like its relatives, it brings life to the cool and shady areas of the garden and enhances the beauty of neighbouring plants. This species is perfectly resistant to cold, down to -15°C (5°F). Still not widely planted, Boehmeria plants are robust perennials that grow quickly. Primarily cultivated for their foliage, their flowers also adds a discreet touch of elegance to the back of flower beds.

Boehmeria tricuspis belongs to the family of Urticaceae. The plant is naturally found in China and Japan. There, it can be found in thickets on the edge of forests, along streams and in hills and mountains at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,400 meters (547 to 1531 yards). It is a deciduous herbaceous perennial plant in winter. Vegetation appears in spring and dries up in autumn. It consists of single or branched stems, forming a clump with a relaxed habit, about 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20in) in all directions. The stems, reddish in colour, bear opposite leaves, generally triangular in shape, divided into 3 strongly toothed lobes, with the middle lobe much longer than the two lateral lobes. Their colour is a light and vibrant green. The flowers are quite subtle, and appear in August-September, in the axils of the upper leaves. The tiny flowers are white-pink in colour and are arranged in small upright spikes. Male and female flowers usually appear on separate individuals. They are pollinated by the wind.

Boehmeria tricuspis is a very interesting plant to bring life to slightly shaded areas, in humus-rich and damp soil, in the company of ferns, Cimicifuga (Bugbanes), Filipendula (Meadowsweets), and lush Rodgersia plants, for example. It is also beautiful in flower beds, adding volume and working wonders alongside other flowering plants. Hydrangeas, kalmias, and other acid-loving shrubs will also be enhanced by its bright foliage.