In Lower Pecos Canyonlands and far west Texas, lechuguilla, the smallest species of the agave family, was one of the main plants baked in the earth ovens that resulted in burned rock midden accumulations. The plants shown here are drought stricken and unsuited for baking. In wet years, lechuguilla plants are greener and filled out; when properly baked for several days, the hearts of the plants are quite sweet and readily digestible. Photo by Phil Dering.