Overview of mountain nettle (the common name), scientifically named, Urtica gracilenta. This plant can cause severe irritation and even numbness, which it did to one of us. Learning to recognize nettles is useful for avoiding being stung by them. Photographed on 7 May 2005 at Aguirre Springs on the Pine Tree Trail.

Closeup of new leaves of mountain nettle, Urtica gracilenta. Photographed on 7 May 2005 at Aguirre Springs on the Pine Tree Trail.

Closeup of spines on leaves of mountain nettle, Urtica gracilenta. Photographed on 7 May 2005 at Aguirre Springs on the Pine Tree Trail.

Closeup of spines on stem of mountain nettle, Urtica gracilenta. Photographed on 7 May 2005 at Aguirre Springs on the Pine Tree Trail.