New Zealand flax

American  

noun

1. a large New Zealand plant, Phormium tenax, of the agave family, having showy, red-margined, leathery leaves and dull-red flowers, grown as an ornamental and for the fiber-yielding leaves.

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Etymology

Origin of New Zealand flax

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

"This is the very thing, Mrs. Renshaw," he said; "this is what is called New Zealand flax, and I have no doubt it will be strong enough for our purpose."

From Maori and Settler A Story of The New Zealand War by Henty, G. A. (George Alfred)

Timber of excellent quality was plentiful, and it was believed that New Zealand flax promised to be of considerable commercial value.

From The Life of Captain James Cook by Kitson, Arthur

The rind of the Adansonia digitata also yields an extremely good material; in particular, paper made entirely from New Zealand flax deserves consideration, being, by virtue of its superior toughness, eminently suited for "bill paper."

From The Former Philippines thru Foreign Eyes by Craig, Austin

Their mother sits on the ground with a little weaving frame about two feet high before her, and makes them of what is called New Zealand flax.

From Holiday Stories for Young People by Sangster, Margaret Elizabeth

New Zealand flax grows admirably in the coast region of California.

From One Thousand Questions in California Agriculture Answered by Wickson, Edward J. (Edward James)