Nettle fibre (European fibre nettle)
Also known as: Common nettle, Stinging nettle fibre, Urtica dioica
Bast fibre from the European stinging nettle Urtica dioica — linen-like, locally grown and very climate-friendly.
Description
The European fibre nettle Urtica dioica has been used for textiles since the Bronze Age and made a comeback during World War I as a cotton substitute for German uniforms. Today it is enjoying a small revival within regional fibre projects in Germany, Austria and Switzerland — unlike Asian ramie, it grows on poor soils without irrigation.
The bast fibres sit under the bark and are separated from the woody core by dew or water retting. They are hollow, making them light and thermoregulating. Pure nettle fabrics are rare and expensive; blends with cotton or wool are more common. Brands such as STOFF & STIL, hessnatur or Lanius offer nettle collections.
- Regional, low-water, pesticide-free cultivation
- Hollow fibre — light and temperature-regulating
- Usually blended with cotton or wool
- Not identical to ramie (Boehmeria nivea)
Properties
| Fibre type | Natural fibre (plant-based, bast fibre) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy |
| Application | Summer shirts, eco collections, blended fabrics |
| Ecology | Grows without irrigation or pesticides |
| Care | Wash up to 40 °C, iron damp |
Related product categories
Sources & references
1- Wikipedia: Große Brennnessel Wikipedia — Freie Enzyklopädie https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gro%C3%9Fe_Brennnessel
