Will my plant fill out again after I prune it?

Yes, pruning stimulates new growth from the nodes. It will look much fuller after a few weeks of good light.

Is full sun too much for my hedgenettle?

No, this plant enjoys full sun to partial shade. Just make sure it is acclimated slowly if you move it from a dark room to a sunny porch.

Common hedgenettle: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe how much light the plant receives throughout the day.
Rotate the pot to ensure all sides get equal light exposure.
Check if the stems are reaching toward a light source.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long and weak with large gaps between the leaves. The plant leans heavily toward the nearest window.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light or some direct sun. If you cannot provide more natural light, consider using a grow light for 8 to 10 hours a day.
Lack of Pruning
Most likely
How to tell: The plant is tall but has not been trimmed, leading to sparse growth at the base. It looks top heavy and thin.
What to do: Prune back the stems by one third to encourage bushier growth. Regular trimming helps the plant stay compact and full.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common hedgenettle

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Legginess is not a disease, but it makes the plant look untidy. It is normal for the plant to stretch slightly if the seasons change and light levels drop.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in a bright location and prune it back occasionally to maintain a compact shape. Rotate the pot every week so it grows evenly.

Common hedgenettle: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common hedgenettle and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will my plant fill out again after I prune it?: Yes, pruning stimulates new growth from the nodes. It will look much fuller after a few weeks of good light.
Is full sun too much for my hedgenettle?: No, this plant enjoys full sun to partial shade. Just make sure it is acclimated slowly if you move it from a dark room to a sunny porch.

Why is my hedgenettle growing so tall and thin?