Ipomoea pandurata/Indian Potato/Man-of-the-Earth
Gouache, Ink, Monotype on linen
8 x 8”
The once-thriving Ipomoea purdata, or Wild Potato Vine, is native to North America, with its territory extending from Oklahoma to the whole of the East Coast. Despite being a tough invasive species in some areas, it is listed as threatened in Michigan and endangered in New York State. . This native tuber is edible if boiled and rinsed several times and can be dried for later use. The Cherokee, and many other tribes, traditionally used this root as a poultice, as well as in teas and infusions for treating cholera, kidney disease, and many other ailments. Worldwide there are at least 5000 potato varieties, with 151 known to be native species. But recent models show that by 2050 as many as 13 of those wild potato species may become extinct, and up to 52% of its distribution area lost, due to climate change and human disruption.
To help conserve native and diverse food species, follow the Crop Trust on Instagram
The Crop Trust is “an international organization working to conserve crop diversity and protect global food and nutrition and security. At the core of Crop Trust is an endowment fund, dedicated to providing guaranteed financial support to genebanks worldwide.”
Donate to the Crop Trust here
This mixed media painting was part of my recent exhibition at the Lloyd Kiva New Gallery in Santa Fe, and it is now for sale at Cielo Handcrafted.