An overview of the production of fibres by plants

Abstract

The fibres which have a great demand in the world are exploited both under cultivated conditions as well as in wild or natural condition. The most commonly exploited species are cotton whose use is antique, represents the harvest of greater industrial importance in the world. The fibre of most extensive use after cotton is jute, but not so valuable as that of cotton or flax from the point of textile value. The cannabis is extensively cultivated in tropical and temperate region. The fibre of this species is valuable owing to the cause of its notable length, its resistance and great durability. Others of the species most explored is ramie of Asiatic origin. The vegetable fibres are found in the roots, stems, leaves, fruits and seeds and are extracted from these parts by different processes such as retting and decortication of the plant parts among others, depending on the stage of maturity of the plant. The purpose of this article is to provide knowledge on the production of fibres by plants, which can be used as a reference by the students, researchers and other stake holders dealing with vegetable fibres.