Field Guide: Wild Urban Flora

Friday, September 23rd
by Editor, Soiled and Seeded

Not being restricted to cultivated plots Soiled and Seeded occasionally strays into the wilder places. In such exploratory circumstances, field guides are required. We are fond of guides, as we have previously taken a look at the North American Forest and whimsical inventories of botanical rarities.

A recent guide, however, instructs on the familiar places closer to home - the volunteer vegetation in the cracks, crevices and abandoned lots of our cities. Wild Urban Plants of the Northeast, written by Peter del Tredici, a research scientist at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, offers city dwellers a chance to develop a keen eye towards all the green growth that surrounds them. There are 222 plants featured and entries include information on the vegetative characteristics, habitat, ecological function and cultural significance. From the forward: "These plants get around on their own; struggle unaided for light, nutrients and water; and thrive without our direct intervention....This book is a key to a natural history that is almost invisible to most people, even though it is right before our eyes."

Calling all urban botanists!

Source: Soiled And Seeded

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