Urticaceae

Herbs shrubs or trees. Leaves simple, alternate or opposite, sometimes with stinging hairs; stipules caducous. Flowers regular, uni- or bisexual, in clusters or panicles. Perianth 4–5, free or connate, green. Stamens 4–5, opposite perianth segments, involute. Ovary superior, 1-locular; ovule 1, basal; style simple. Fruit a nut or drupaceous. 52 gen., mostly trop., a few temp.