Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is a warm season annual native to east-central Africa. The stems consist of an outer bark (30 to 35% of stem weight) composed of moderately long bast-like fibers (50 to 55%), and an inner core (60 to 65% of the stem weight) composed of Balsawood-like short fibers (45 to 50% of the core). The bast fiber is used to produce burlap, carpet padding, and pulp. The short-fibered core is used for bedding, packing materials, absorbent mats, etc.
Kenaf can reach heights of 12 to 18 feet and produce 5 to 10 dry tons of fiber/ac. It can be harvested using standard forage harvesters and hay balers, or modified sugar cane harvesters.
Approximately 8,000 acres are currently planted to kenaf, mostly in Texas, Mississippi, Georgia, and Louisiana.