(äp′i dən) of a town; urban         (ver·dure) flourishing greenery

Oppidan Verdure is a self-published quarterly plant guide that I distribute for free at coffee shops and bookstores. Original illustrations are created on paper with machine embroidery and pen/ink. Words are mine unless otherwise stated.

I conceived of Oppidan Verdure while living in brooklyn, ny, in order to unify my art- making and gardening. As I visit new places and move through seasons, spending time with plants is a way for me to deepen my sense of place and align myself with nature’s cycles.

This is a very personal project that I made public in order to connect with the overwhelmingly large crowds of strangers I encountered daily in the city. It is my hope that by dispersing droppings of these booklets, I will engage in an anonymous dialogue about urban greenery and enhance the plant consciousness of my community.

May we cherish this land and help ensure its vitality.

Plantago major (Common Plantain)

Of no relation to the tropical fruit. Called “white man’s footprint” by the Americans Indians, this small herbaceous perennial grows in cities from brooklyn to san francisco and in fields and lawns around the country. Deeply ribbed oval leaves and small seed-producing spikes emerge from a common central point.

Edible and high in vitamins C & A. Cook like spinach, eat raw when young or make tea. Medicinally, it is used to treat sores, rashes and insect bites. Look for it in the cracks of sidewalks and in any untreated grassy area.