This widespread northern species is generally tetraploid (2n = 26), but has sometimes been combined as a subspecies with the European octoploid, U. dioica L. (2n = 52). Combination of these two species has led to some erroneous mapping of dioica sensu lato as an "invasive species" (e.g. SE). In eastern states, gracilis is scattered south along the Ohio Rv. and Mississippi Rv. to La., and along the Appalachians at least to Va. (FNA 3; W). Although somewhat weedy, it is mysteriously absent from most of Ky., except near the Ohio Rv., and Gm called it "an obscure plant" (also Pilea pumila). It may have become somewhat limited due to its high palatability for some generalist herbivores, including hogs and other livestock; see also notes on Laportea. Either Urtica gracilis or Laportea canadensis must have been the "nettles" referred to by pioneers in the Bluegrass region as "very tall" or "four feet high" plants collected for fiber to weave with "buffalo wool" (e.g. Fleming 1780 in Mereness 1916; Olive Boone ca. 1842 in Hammon 1999; Clinkenbeard 1842 in Beckner 1928). U. gracilis is also an excellent human food when young upper leaves are cooked in spring, just as U. dioica is an important ancient wild food in Eurasia (Redzić 2010).