(Redirected from Boehmeria macrophylla)

This is an exceedingly complex, variable and difficult species to circumscribe. We are following the treatment in The old World species of Boehmeria (Urticaceae, tribus Boehmerieae). A taxonomic revision[] which subdivides the species into two subspecies (subsp virgata and subsp macrophylla), each of which have a number of vars[].
This record deals with the subspecies macrophylla, which is found from Africa, through southern Asia to western Indonesia[].

Common Name:

General Information

Boehmeria virgata macrophylla is an erect, perennial plant producing a cluster of stems that can become woody and persistent, at least at their base. It usually grows 1 - 2 metres tall, exceptionally to 3.5 metres[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild, mainly for its useful fibre which is used locally.
Widespread, in a wide range of habitats and presumed often abundant. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

Although members of the nettle family, plants in this genus do not have stinging hairs[].

Botanical References

,

Range

Tropical Africa, - Sierra Leone to Ethiopia, south to Angola, Mozambique; E. Asia - Indian subcontinent, China, through southeast Asia to Indonesia.

Habitat

River beds in the sub-Himalayan tract at elevations up to 1,200 metres[]. Edges of forests, valleys and roadsides; at elevations rom 100 - 3,000 metres in western China[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Shrub
Height	1.50 m
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Boehmeria virgata macrophylla has a very wide range from the tropics of Africa, through southern Asia (where it can be found at elevations up to 3,000 metres in the Himalayas and experiences both snow and frost) and through to southeast Asia.
Species in this genus generally succeed in a warm sandy soil[] that is very well-drained[]. This species is found in a wide range of habitats, including wet and soils, open positions and deep shade[].
A variable species, several sub-species are recognised[].
Plants in this species are usually dioecious, though monoecious forms also occur.[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

A fibre is obtained from the bark[]. Of excellent quality, it is used for making sacks, bags, rough clothes, nets, rope etc[, , , ]. The fibre is shiny, white and strong; a beautiful fibre, it is used for making nets, sacks and rough clothes[, ]. It is possibly useful for textiles[].

The wood is moderately hard but is too small for much use, though it makes a good fuel[].

Propagation

Seed - sow in pots and only just cover the seed. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out when at least 20cm tall.
Division. Very easy, larger divisions can be planted straight into their permanent positions whilst smaller clumps are best planted in a nursery until they are growing away well.
Layering.
Basal cuttings. Harvest new shoots when they are about 10 - 15cm long with plenty of underground stem. Pot them up into individual pots and keep them in light shade until they are rooting well.

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