Phormium tenax (Agavaceae) leaf anatomy effects on fibre extraction by the Maori haro method

Abstract

Fracture mechanics tests and electron microscope studies showed that the fibre-bundle sheath cells of Phormium tenax varieties from which fibre can be easily extracted by the Maori haro method were weak and thin-walled. The method causes fracture to occur along this layer of cells that surround the fibre-bundles. As a result, the fibre-bundles that are removed from these varieties are very clean and require little further preparation before use. © 2003 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.