Fibers from three cultivars of New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax)

Botanists recognize only two kinds of New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax and Phormium colensoi), while Maori weavers recognise over fifty different cultivars that have specific end-uses. Selected properties of muka(4) (sclerenchyma fiber aggregates extracted from harakeke (P. tenax)) from three of these cultivars (Arawa, Tapamangu, Makaweroa) are examined. Maori consider these three cultivars to provide excellent fibers that are easy to process. Tapamangu and Arawa are similar in terms of muka length, linear density, tenacity, extension at maximum load, and maximum extension, and the ultimate fibers of these cultivars have similar dimensions (width, length). Muka from Makaweroa is longer, not as tough, but with a linear density similar to the other cultivars. The ultimate fiber length of Makaweroa is greater, but the width is similar to Tapamangu and Arawa. Muka from the keel is longer, of higher linear density, and tougher (similar tenacity, higher maximum extension) compared to margin muka. The side of the leaf from which muka is extracted does not affect the properties measured.