Image
Māori have always selected different types of flax and grown them in plantations known as pā harakeke. These cultivars have names, and are used for various purposes. Clockwise from top left: the muka (fibre) of ‘Kōhunga’ is prized for fine cloaks; ‘Ngaro’ has long, strong leaves that are ideal for piupiu (skirts); ‘Paoa’ dries to a bright yellow, good for making patterns in mats and baskets; ‘Oue’ makes very strong kete (baskets).
Using this item
Landcare Research – Manaaki Whenua
by Robert Lamberts
© Copyright image. All rights reserved. Permission from Manaaki Whenua: Landcare Research New Zealand Limited must be obtained before the re-use of this image.