I want to know what the tall (sometines 8') wild "itchy" plant is that grows along the road, looks like "pot"

Question

you can find this tall plant along the road, it spreads like crazy, and I want to know what its called. My husband calls it "itch weed", I can't find any info on the internet at all, it doesn't look like any of the pictures I have seen. there are no flowers, just lots of leaves and it grows real tall, looking like the Marijuana plant or an unbrella type plant, anyone know what this is??

Answer 1

The only thing that pops to mind (aside from poison oak and poison ivy which I'm sure you've considered) is "Stinging Nettle" which feels like ant bites when it brushes against your skin.

http://www.mooseyscountrygarden.com/new-...

http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com/JPEG'S/...

http://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/assets/o...

Answer 2

sounds like hemp. does it look like a Christmas tree? if so hemp    if it smells like a skunk  its someones weed

Or it may be stinging nettles  but they don't really look like pot

Do they cause red burny spots when touched to skin? nettles

Answer 3

I think that you are describing a species of ragweed.  It is certainly common enough, loves roadsides, and I guess it somewhat resembles marijuana in growth habit.

Answer 4

I think you might be referring to Nettles.

Nettles are also called 'stinging nettles' because, especially in the spring, if you touch them, you will immediately have a stinging sensation, followed by the development of small white bumps and a red area.

There are actually different types of nettle, and some of them don't sting.  I think some people actually use them in a tea or take them in a pill form as an herbal remedy - but I don't know what for.