CHILI (Capsicum annuum L.) AND TOMATO (Solanum lycopersicum L.) TRADITIONAL CROPS IN THE NAHUA AND TOTONAKU COMMUNITIES OF PUEBLA, MEXICO

Abstract

Objective: To describe the economic and cultural importance of chili (Capsicum annuum L.) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) crops in the northeastern region of Puebla, Mexico, where people preserve, use and market different varieties of these solanaceas cultivated since prehispanic era.

Design/methodology/approach: Interviews were conducted in Nahua and Totonaku communities, applying surveys after calculating the sample size considering only farmer families. A descriptive analysis was made with the information collected.Results: All the communities produce three varieties of tomato and three of chili. People denominate it in the original language, for example the tomato ball in Nahuat they call it 'xitomat' and 'paklchu' in Totonaku; chiltepín is called 'chiltekpin' in Nahuat and 'stilapkin' in Totonaku. Both are important corps, grown in milpas and backyard orchards for self-consumption or local sale. The cultural practices are diverse, in Tzicuilan more than 70% perform religious ceremonies, in Tuxtla 76% do traditional non-religious work, only in Tatoxcac and Ecatlán activities are carried out according to the lunar phases.Limitations on study/implications: We consider important to know the social and cultural dynamics around the production and consumption of this crops, since they constitute a historical legacy of the native peoples and is an essential part of the farmer traditions in Mexico.

Findings/conclusions: In the communities three varieties of tomato and chili are produced, commonly denominated in the original language of the community. Both crops are important in terms of feeding, local marketing and cultural development; people perform religious and moon phase ceremonies, and traditional tillage.