Herb show in Hamburg: Forgotten plants bloom in the concrete!

Herb show in Hamburg: Forgotten plants bloom in the concrete!

On June 30, 2025, botanist Kolja Bodendieck launched a remarkable “Krautschau” tour in Hamburg’s HafenCity, during which 25 participants were made aware of the often overlooked wild plants in the city. The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of these plants and their importance for urban nature. Plants such as prostrate pearlwort and broad plantain are presented with colorful chalk borders. “We want to highlight the diversity of plants that thrive between the paving stones,” explains Bodendieck.

The campaign is part of a growing movement that began in France and came to Germany via England. In this country, the initiative can be found under the hashtags #Krautschau and #MehrAlsUnkraut. Over 70 such tours were held last spring, and more than 100 are planned for next season. The popularity of the “Krautschau” campaigns responds to the phenomenon of plant blindness, in which people have difficulty perceiving the plants in their environment. This makes it all the more important to discover small wild plants and highlight their benefits.

The importance of wild plants

Wild plants not only provide food and shelter for a variety of insects such as wild bees, but they are also crucial for improving urban habitats. Bodendieck, supported by his colleague Imke Bodendieck, emphasizes that there are numerous vacant lots in HafenCity, which make it easier to find these plants. “Every plant has its value and should be allowed to grow,” he says, pointing out how important wild plants are in reducing the consequences of climate change.

Studies show that around 500 plant species in Germany have adapted to extreme urban conditions. These plants withstand heat, soil compaction and pollution by creating micro-ecosystems for other organisms. They help the soil remain stable, allow water to seep away and keep surfaces cooler on hot summer days.

Technology and community

Another notable element of the “Krautschau” campaigns is the use of modern technology. Participants are encouraged to use plant identification apps such as FloraIncognita or ObsIdentify to identify the plants picked. A common goal is to share photos of the plants online and communicate with a wider audience.

This grassroots movement, initiated by botanists and plant enthusiasts, not only promotes interest in urban botany, but also creates a platform for collaborative learning and knowledge sharing about the importance of the “forgotten” plants in our urban spaces. **Krautschau** is more than just a walk through nature - it is an invitation to rediscover the world around us.

District newspaper reports that the campaigns regularly attract new participants and enthusiasts. Also MDR highlights the importance of noticing the unknown plants of cities. There is more information available for those interested Research together available.