The plant grows rapidly, reaching 12 to 14 feet in four or five months. United States Department of Agriculture research demonstrated that kenaf yields six to 10 tons of dry fiber per acre annually. This is a yield three to four times greater than Southern pine, which may take seven to 40 years to reach a size suitable for harvest. Two distinct fibers are present in kenaf plants. It is used in paper products.
Current research focuses on ways to assure a consistent supply of viable seed.
The stamp is shown in Figure 5. Hemp fibers currently are in use in clothing and accessories. An Athens, Ohio, company produces a catalog featuring a variety of hemp apparel and hemp yardage. Marijuana is made from the dried flowers and leaves of the plant. Pictured on the left is a 1979 Brazilian stamp showing the cultivation of ramie.