SafePlants

Agave sisalana: Sisal Hemp

Agave sisalana, commonly known as sisal hemp, is a fascinating plant with a rich history and diverse uses. Let's delve into the details of this species.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The text mentions that Agave sisalana yields fiber and is commonly found in plantations, suggesting potential contact with humans and animals.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Accepted Scientific Name: Agave sisalana Perrine Trop. Subtrop. 12 Mar 1838
• Common Names: Sisal hemp, Bahamas hemp, century plant, hemp plant, sisal agave, dali, garingboom, natali, ndali, te rob&#39, te robu
• Family: Agavaceae (now often included in Asparagaceae)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Synonyms:
  • Agave rigida var. sisalana (Perrine) Engelm.
  • Agave rigida var. sisalana Baker
  • Agave rigida var. sisalana Perrault Ex Engelmann
  • Agave segurae D. Guillot &amp. P. Van der Meer

Distribution and Habitat

• Agave sisalana is native to the semi-arid regions of Mexico, specifically Chiapas.

Ecological Role

• The text implies that it may be present outside its native area.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The plant is known for its leaves, which yield fiber.

Traditional and Historical Uses

• Historically, the fiber from Agave sisalana has been used for various purposes. The text references its cultivation and use in Yucatan plantations.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Along with plants from the related genus Yucca, various Agave species.

Resources and Further Information

• Catalogue of Life
• Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS)
• USDA PLANTS Database
• IPNI (International Plant Names Index)
• Australian Plant Name Index
• NYBG Virtual Herbarium
• JSTOR Plant Science

Quirky Facts

• A Mexican name for Sisal hemp ({Agave rigida}, var. Sisalana) is jeniquen, which can also refer to its fiber.