CLEARWEED

CLEARWEED

Pilea pumila
NETTLE FAMILY (Urticaceae)

Identification

  • Flowering time - July, August, September
  • Common in ravines and other moist areas at FF and NW
  • Watery, translucent stems
  • Shiny leaves with rounded teeth and 3 prominent veins
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This native annual has translucent, watery stems which grow up to 2 feet tall. The leaves are opposite on the stems, with stalks 2-3 inches long and blades 3-6 inches long (B). The leaves are translucent as well; they have three major veins and rounded teeth. The pinkish-white flower clusters, first green, are inconspicuous in the leaf axils (C,D). The fruit (achene) is nearly black. This member of the Nettle Family lacks stinging hairs.

Found along moist woodland creeks and seeps, flowering from July through September.  It is common in ravines and other moist areas at Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods

The common name refers to the clear, translucent and watery stem.  Alternate common names include Richweed and Coolwort.

The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.