Java Jute/Kenaf
Hibiscus cannabinus
Kenaf is cultivated for its fiber in India, Bangladesh, the United States, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Africa, and Southeast Europe. First grown in Egypt over 3000 years ago, the leaves of the kenaf plant were a component of both human and animal diets, while the bast fiber was used for bags, cordage, and the sails of Egyptian boats. The main uses of kenaf fiber have been rope, twine, coarse cloth, and paper. Other uses of kenaf fiber include: engineered wood, insulation, clothing-grade cloth, soilless potting mixes, animal bedding, packing material, and material that absorbs oil and liquids. Very useful!!
Water: Adaptable
Hardiness: Frost Hardy
Habit: A single-stemmed, erect, annual or biennial, growing to around 5' tall
Light: Full Sun
Soil: Ideally well-draining, fertile, rich soils
Origin: Southern Asia