Ahuejote (Salix bonplandiana)


The ahuejote is a type of native willow tree commonly found along the chinampas in Xochimilco. In the construction of a chinampa, a layer of canal sediment is placed onto a grid made of woven reeds. Lake mud and reed mats are layered until the chinampa reaches the desired height. Then, the ahuejotes are planted along its edges to anchor the chinampa to the lake floor. The ahuejote performs multiple functions, including acting as a living fence and a wind and insect barrier, in addition to holding the soil within the chinampa plots.