<p><strong>Background.</strong> The patios are traditional productive units that provide plants with multiple use value to the rural families of Mexico. However, capitalism promotes its deterioration and violates food security. <strong>Objetive.</strong> Analyze the useful plants of the courtyards to the families of Santo Domingo Ocotitlán in Tepoztlán, Morelos, Mexico. <strong>Methodology.</strong> Ethnobotanical knowledge was documented of 27 open interviews, guided tours and collection of botanical material for identification; the Cultural Value Indices (CVI) and medicinal diversity (MDV) of each plant were calculated. <strong>Results.</strong> 94 species belonging to 45 botanical families were recorded, Rosaceae highlighted (11.1%). Ten use values were recorded, with food (37.2%) and medicinal (29.7%) standing out. The medicinal plants treat 27 diseases classified in 10 categories, highlighting: digestive system (35.5%) and respiratory system (22.6%). 90% of the species are destined for self-sufficiency. The plants with the highest CVI were: <em>Persea americana</em> and <em>Citrus aurantifolia</em> (0.47). The species with the highest MDV was <em>Aloe vera</em> (0.19).<strong> Implications. </strong>The information generated in this research must be included in public management, conservation and social welfare policies.<strong>Conclusion</strong><strong>.</strong> The traditional patios studied provide environmental goods and services to the peasant families of Santo Domingo.</p>