Genus Boehmeria is a group of perennial herbs and shrubs that are native to Asia, with a few species spreading to other parts of the world, including North America and Africa. The genus has several synonyms, including Urticastrum, which was previously used to classify the plants because of their similarities to the Urtica (nettle) species. Some other synonyms for the Genus Boehmeria include Contusia, Elatostema, and Neraudia. These synonyms reflect the changes made to the classification system over the years as scientists continue to study the characteristics and relationships of different plant species. Today, Genus Boehmeria is recognized as part of the family Urticaceae, which includes other important plants like hemp and mulberry.