What is parietaria?

Parietaria is a genus of annual or perennial flowering plants in the nettle family (Urticaceae). The plants are commonly known as pellitory, burnweed, or wall pellitory. The genus includes around 60 species that are found throughout the world in temperate and subtropical regions.

Parietaria species are small herbaceous plants that can grow up to 1 meter in height, depending on the species. They have alternate leaves that are simple, oval in shape, and toothed. The plants produce small, greenish-white flowers that are arranged in clusters in the axils of the leaves. The flowers are wind-pollinated and produce small, dry fruits.

Some species of parietaria are known to cause allergies in humans, particularly in the form of respiratory problems and skin irritations. However, some species have also been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-asthmatic properties. In addition, parietaria species are important food sources for many insects, including butterflies and moths.