Hempnettles

Hempnettles (genus *Hempnetta*) are a small group of perennial, herbaceous plants belonging to the family Urticaceae. The genus is characterized by stout, sturdy stems and large, deeply lobed leaves that bear stinging hairs similar to those of the common stinging nettle (*Urtica dioica*). Unlike most members of the Urticaceae family, the fibers in hempnettles are long and tensile, making them a potential alternative source of natural textile fiber. The species within the genus are typically found in temperate regions of North America, where they occupy moist, partially shaded habitats such as riverbanks, floodplains, and forest understories.

Morphologically, hempnettles grow to heights of 1.2–2.5 meters and are distinguished by their fibrous leaves, which possess a vascular cambium capable of producing bast fibers with high cellulose content. The flower spikes are monoecious, bearing separate male and female flowers on the same plant; pollination is primarily wind‑mediated. Seed dispersal occurs by wind and water, and seedlings commonly establish in disturbed soil.

Cultivation of hempnettles has emerged as a niche agricultural endeavor, motivated by the growing demand for sustainable, biodegradable fibers. Commercial hempnettle plantations are usually managed through annual cutting regimes, allowing multiple harvests per year while maintaining soil health. The fibers are extracted through a retting process similar to that used for traditional hemp (*Cannabis sativa*), producing yarns suitable for weaving, textile blends, and composite materials. In addition to their fiber value, hempnettles serve ecological roles: they provide cover for wildlife, stabilize soil, and act as nitrogen fixers in their ecosystems.

Despite these benefits, hempnettles face conservation concerns due to habitat loss from land development and competition with invasive plant species. Conservation efforts focus on preserving natural stands through habitat protection and exploring genetic diversity within wild and cultivated populations. Current research examines the potential of hempnettle fibers in renewable material science, assessing their mechanical properties, dye uptake, and biodegradability in comparison with conventional plant fibers.