Manila Hemp

Manila Hemp, also abaca, common name for a plant and for the fiber obtained from its leafstalks. The plant is native to the Philippines. It is cultivated there and, to a lesser extent, in Southeast Asia and Central America. Mature plants are processed much the same as flax and hemp. The finer fibers, often 5 m (15 ft) long, are used for weaving cloth. The outer, coarser fibers are used in the manufacture of matting and durable cordage; the latter is widely considered the finest rope made. Manila hemp is a chief export product of the Philippines.

Scientific classification: Manila hemp belongs to the banana family, Musaceae. It is classified as Musa textilis.