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sisal hemp
Scientific Name: Agave sisalana
Family: Agavaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Subshrub, Shrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Sisal (Agave sisalana)
Sisal is a term that can refer to both the plant itself and the fiber derived from it. It is sometimes called "sisal hemp," although it is not true hemp.
Considerations for Pets
- Sisal plants have sword-shaped leaves that can be up to 2 meters tall.
- Sisal fiber is derived from the leaves of the agave plant.
Scientific Classification
- Scientific Name: Agave sisalana
- Common Name: Sisal, Sisal Hemp
- Domain: Eukaryota
- Kingdom: Plantae
Nomenclature
- Synonyms: Sisal hemp
Description
- Sisal hemp is a fiber that is 60-100 cm long.
- It is derived from the sword-shaped leaves of the sisal agave (Agave sisalana), which is approximately 2 meters tall.
Distribution and Habitat
- Sisal derives its name from the port of Sisal in the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico, from where the fiber was exported.
- By the late 1930s, sisal was cultivated in Kenya and Mozambique.
- Native to: HI I L48 I PB I PR I VI I (These abbreviations may represent specific US states, territories, or islands.)
Ecological Role
- Agave sisalana is considered an invasive alien plant species in some regions.
Uses
- Sisal fiber is used to make rope, rugs, fishing nets, paper, sacks, fire hoses, and textiles.
Quirky Facts
- Sisal hemp was historically used for rope making, including for fishing gear.
- There was a "Sisal Hemp and Development Company," suggesting a period of significant cultivation and economic activity.
Further Information
- Philippine Herbal Medicine - An illustrated compilation of Philippine medicinal plants by Dr Godofredo Stuart