Stinging nettle, or Urtica dioica, is an herbaceous perennial that thrives in wet climates and moist soils. Nettles earn their name from the tiny hairs found on the leaves and stems that cause a stinging sensation upon contact with skin. Nettle leaves have long been used fresh as a wild food in spring and then dried for its beneficial properties. Our North American nettle leaves are organically cultivated in the United States and make a light brew when steeped as nettle tea or when added to an herbal infusion blend. Nettle leaves are harvested in the spring, once the plant has had time to mature but before it goes into flower.