Next Page Olona Leaf of Olona Fibers from Olona were the strongest material for the manufacture of rope for naval vessels until the invention of synthetics like Nylon. Longitudinal section of Olona fibers seen with Polarized Light. The brightness of the fibers shows that hey have thick cell walls. They were so strong that only a few individual fibers were required to attach plumage to feathered capes of the ali'i.
Olona fibers are exceptionally long.
This also enhances their utility because long fibers are less likely to separate than short ones. The pink color indicates the absence of lignin. Olona fibers are found in the outer region of the stem where hau and wauke fibers are located. However, the fiber-like cells of Olona are actually laticifers . Laticifers are highly elongated cells which produce a fluid called latex.