CLEARWEED
Pilea pumila
NETTLE FAMILY (Urticaceae)
Description
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 (A,C,D). The fruit (achene) is nearly black. This nettle lacks stinging hairs. Identified by the shiny, translucent and opposite leaves with three prominent veins and rounded teeth.
Occurrence
Found along moist woodland creeks and seeps, flowering from July through September. In Fontenelle Forest, uncommon in hollows such as Mormon Hollow. At Neale Woods, common in ravines such as Raccoon Hollow.
Comments
The common name refers to the clear, translucent and watery stem.
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is: Roland Barth.
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