Wild Kenaf,Hibiscus cannabinus L. (Malvaceae), and related species in Kenya and Tanzania

Abstract

Kenaf,Hibiscus cannabinus L., occurs as a wild and ruderal plant in Kenya and Tanzania. It is polymorphic, varying in height, growth habit, spininess, flower color, and size of floral parts, capsules, and seeds. It occupies several distinct environmental niches, from low-lying meadows close to swamps and streams to semi-arid grassland /thornbush plains. It is also found in various weedy situations, such as cultivated and fallow fields, and fence- and hedgerows. At least one ecotype appears to be specifically adapted as a weed of cultivated fields. Leaves and stem-tips of this plant are used as food. It is not cultivated for this purpose, although it is sometimes encouraged in fields of maize, cassava, and perhaps other crops. It is apparently not used for fiber by the natives, possibly because fiber of the introduced sisal (Agave sisalana Perr.) is readily available everywhere. Kenaf fiber is produced commercially on a plantation in Tanzania, from a cultivar developed in Guatemala. The occurrence of twelve other taxa of Hibiscus section Furcaria in East Africa is discussed briefly.