THE ENCHANTING CALAFATE
Patagonia, the vast and captivating region in South America, is home to a unique plant known as the calafate. As a child growing up in the Barrio Almirante Storni of the Argentine Navy, I have fond memories of venturing into the wild landscapes of Patagonia to discover this remarkable shrub. The calafate, scientifically called Berberis microphylla/buxifolia/heterophylla, is a thorny bush endemic to the Argentine-Chilean Patagonia region. Its small purplish-blue berries, which ripen from October to January, are not only delicious but also hold a special place in the folklore and legends of Patagonia.
Unveiling the Calafate:
The calafate, standing no taller than one and a half meters, is a resilient shrub adorned with numerous thorns. Its small yellow flowers bloom during the summer months, eventually giving way to the formation of the cherished berries. The edible berries, approximately one centimeter in size, have become a culinary delight, inspiring the creation of various products such as sweets, ice creams, flavored beers, and liquors. These berries, with their vibrant purplish-blue color, not only captivate the taste buds but also hold a significant place in the culture and traditions of the Patagonian people.
The Legends of the Calafate:
The folklore surrounding the calafate is deeply intertwined with the indigenous cultures of Patagonia. One such legend is that of the Calafate Maiden, a story passed down by the Tehuelche people. According to this myth, Calafate was a beautiful young woman with golden eyes, the daughter of a tribal chief. She fell in love with a young man from another tribe, and their forbidden love led them to plan an escape together. To prevent their union, the chief consulted with a shaman who transformed Calafate into a thorny plant with golden flowers reminiscent of her eyes. The young man, in his relentless pursuit, was eventually transformed into a small and swift bird. After years of searching, the bird found solace in the berries of the calafate plant, reuniting with his beloved Calafate. To this day, it is believed that those who consume the calafate fruit will always return to the place where they first tasted it, perpetuating the legend's saying, "He who eats Calafate always comes back for more."
Another legend tells the story of Koonex, an elderly healer of the tribe who understood the natural law of life. In the autumn of her life, Koonex decided to fulfill her destiny and bid farewell to her tribe. The women of the tribe constructed an awning with guanaco skins, providing warmth, food, and shelter for Koonex. As the long winter passed, and the arrival of spring brought life back to the land, the awning transformed into a beautiful thorny bush with scented yellow flowers. The flowers later turned into the delicious calafate berries. The legend states that some birds who had migrated did not leave again upon hearing the news, and the Tehuelche people returned to try the fruit, forever adopting it as their own. This legend gave rise to the saying, "He who eats Calafate always comes back."
Preserving Tradition and Delight:
The calafate holds a special place in the hearts and palates of the Patagonian people. Its rich flavor, coupled with the enchanting legends, has cemented its status as a symbol of Patagonia's natural beauty and cultural heritage. The preservation of the calafate and its traditions is of utmost importance, ensuring that future generations can savor the unique taste and experience the allure of Patagonia.
As I reflect on my childhood adventures in Patagonia, I am reminded of the profound connection between the calafate and the rich folklore of the region. The calafate not only delights the senses with its exquisite berries but also serves as a bridge to the ancestral traditions and legends of the Patagonian people. Whether it is the tale of the Calafate Maiden or the story of Koonex, the calafate stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of Patagonia. So, if you ever have the chance to taste the calafate fruit, remember that you are not only savoring a delicious treat but also immersing yourself in the captivating history and culture of this remarkable region.
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