Article Nº 1311 Plant Vol. I · p. 788
New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax)
Original title: Espadana (Phormium tenax)
New Zealand flax, grown at Monte, Santana and in Funchal gardens; its leaves serve as ties instead of wicker and yield fibre.
A member of the lily family native to New Zealand, cultivated at Monte, Santana and in some gardens in Funchal. The long, glaucous leaves of this plant, cut into strips once they have wilted, serve as ties in place of osier. A fibre can also be extracted from them, which in some countries is used to make ropes and a strong, durable fabric. The juice of espadana leaves has been recommended against cancerous diseases.