Mala mujer (Cnidoscolus urens)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mala mujer on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Mala mujer
Cnidoscolus urens, commonly known as white-nettle or tread-softly, is a perennial plant from the Euphorbiaceae family, notorious for its stinging hairs. Its large, lobed leaves and white flowers in cymes give it an exotic appearance, making it suitable for native plant gardens or as a botanical curiosity if its stinging potential can be managed.
Native range
Tropical America, from Mexico to South America
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun for optimal growth and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or rocky, as it is intolerant of waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, and reduced during winter. A common mistake is handling it without protection, as its stinging hairs can cause severe skin irritation.
How to save a dying Mala mujer
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or excessive leaf drop, soft stems or spots.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade, reduce watering, and check drainage.
- What kills it
- Overwatering or prolonged direct strong sun exposure.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly and there's no severe rot at the base.