Background:

The genus Dahlia is native to Mexico and has 41 described species. Globally, it is notable for its diversity and ornamental relevance. In Mexico, its use is widespread, being employed for ornamental purposes, food, and medicine. Despite its historical and cultural significance, detailed knowledge about the uses of Dahlia mostly comes from scattered gray literature.

Questions:

What are the documented traditional uses, geographic distribution of knowledge, and conservation challenges for the genus Dahlia in its center of origin?

Studied species:

The study focused on the genus Dahlia (Asteraceae).

Study site:

Mexico, the center of origin and diversification for the genus.

Methods:

Information was compiled from scientific databases, theses, and herbarium specimens. A systematic search was conducted to identify all available sources reporting traditional uses of Dahlia within Mexico.

Results:

Our research documented ethnobotanical uses in 19 states and for 11 Dahlia species. Ornamental use is the most extensive and widely documented. Other uses include food and medicine, though these are less recorded.

Conclusions:

We highlight the need for further studies on regional ethnobotany, conservation, and sustainable management to preserve this valuable genetic and cultural resource. The over reliance on gray literature emphasizes the urgency of concentrated and formalizing this knowledge before it is lost. The geographic patterns shown in this work are a fragment of the total knowledge. Future studies should prioritize filling these geographic and taxonomic gaps to fully appreciate and safeguard this invaluable biocultural heritage.

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