Samma
Urtica simensis
Family: Urticaceae
What it is like
A nettle plant. It is an erect herb and does not branch. It grows 1 m tall. It has a creeping underground stem or rhizome. The leaves are oval and have coarse teeth. They are 5-12 cm long by 3-8 cm wide. It has stinging hairs. Plants are separately male and female.
It is also used in medicine.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. In Ethiopia it grows between 2,500-3,500 m altitude.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, East Africa, Ethiopia
How it is used for food
The leaves are often rubbed between cloth then boiled and eaten. They are usually crushed and salted. They can be eaten alone or with other foods.
It is a famine food. It has good food value and is commonly eaten in Ethiopia. Plants are sold in local markets.
Edible parts
Leaves, vegetable
How it is grown
The plant can be grown by seeds or runners.
The leaves need to be harvested without getting stung by the stinging hairs.
Its other names
Local names
Gurgubee, Laaleessa, Laalesa, Sama