Agave Americana
This plant is commonly known as American aloe,
but it is not a member of that family, as it claims kindred with
the _Amaryllis_ tribe of plants. It grows naturally in a wide
range of climate, from the plains of South America to
elevations
of 10,000 feet. It furnishes a variety of products. The plants
form impenetrable fences; the leaves furnish fibers of various
qualities, from the fine thread known as pita-thread, which is
used for twine, to the coarse fibers used for ropes and cables.
Humboldt describes a bridge of upward of 130 feet span over the
Chimbo in Quito, of which the main ropes (4 inches in diameter)
were made of this fiber. It is also used for making paper. The
juice, when the watery part is evaporated, forms a good soap (as
detergent as castile), and will mix and form a lather with salt
water as well as with fresh. The sap from the heart leaves is
formed into pulque. This sap is sour, but has sufficient sugar and
mucilage for fermentation. This vinous beverage has a filthy odor,
but those who can overcome the aversion to this fetid smell
indulge largely in the liquor. A very intoxicating brandy is made
from it. Razor strops are made from the leaves; they are also used
for cleaning and scouring pewter.
Previous: Aegle Marmelos
Next: Agave Rigida
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