“Ethnobotany of the Tewa Indians,” published in 1916 by Wilfred William Robbins, John Peabody Harrington, and Barbara Freire-Marreco, offers an in-depth exploration of the Tewa people’s relationship with plants in the upper Rio Grande Valley of New Mexico. The work is a collaborative effort stemming from ethnological and archaeological research conducted by the Bureau of American Ethnology and the School of American Archaeology between 1910 and 1911. This publication serves as Bulletin 55 of the Bureau of American Ethnology .​

The book is meticulously organized into several sections, beginning with an introduction that outlines the scope and methodology of the research. It delves into Tewa concepts of plant life, providing insight into how the Tewa perceive and categorize the plant world. A significant portion is dedicated to plant nomenclature, detailing the Tewa names for various plants and their corresponding English equivalents. The text also examines the parts and properties of plants, offering a comprehensive understanding of how different plant components are utilized. Additionally, the growth, condition, and color of plants are discussed, shedding light on the Tewa’s observations and interactions with their environment. An annotated list of plants follows, providing detailed descriptions and uses of each plant species identified during the study .​

Illustrations and nine plates, including a folded map, accompany the text, enhancing the reader’s comprehension of the material. The work is not only a botanical study but also a cultural document that reflects the Tewa’s deep connection to their natural surroundings. By cataloging the plants significant to the Tewa, the authors have preserved valuable knowledge that highlights the intricate relationship between indigenous peoples and their environment. This publication remains a seminal work in the field of ethnobotany, offering timeless insights into the traditional ecological knowledge of the Tewa Indians .​