Diversity and continuity of “quelites” (potherbs) in the Sierra Tarahumara, Chihuahua, Mexico

Over 100 species of “quelites” (tender edible plant parts or “guilibá” in ŕarámuri) have been documented as a critical complement in the Tarahumara maize-bean-squash diet since the colonial period.  Even with this extensive historical base, recent interviews and participant observations revealed new taxonomic records.  These potherbs are floristic elements in both the temperate and tropical zones as well as members of natural and anthropogenic habitats.  Some species are so important that they are subject to incipient domestication.  Normally these greens are eaten fresh at the start of the rainy season and the excess is dried for later consumption.  The quelite inventory includes many endemic species.  Certain geographically widespread species are eaten only in the Sierra Tarahumara.  Because of the decline in the availability of quelites, we are collaborating with the Tarahumara community through participatory research to rescue and reevaluate quelites as well as to increase their availability for home consumption and the local market.