Landcare Research - Manaaki Whenua

Landcare-Research -Manaaki Whenua

Tākirikau

Cultivar No Source: Rene Orchiston 5
Source Source: Rene Orchiston Tauwhareparae, East Coast.
Description Source: Rene Orchiston

A favourite of the Ngāti Porou. The term tākirikau (like tīhore) is applied to all the finer cultivars of flax which can be stripped of fibre without the use of a shell (i.e., with the fingers only).

A very handsome harakeke, growing at times up to 3 metres high. Straight, very strong, pale yellowy-green leaves. Bright yellow-orange margin and keel. Small number of very high, heavy kōrari.

Uses Source: Rene Orchiston

A real whītau harakeke, producing long strands of strong, shiny fibre. Could be good for strong whenu (warp) in weaving. Very good piupiu variety, particularly for ladies piupiuóeasy to prepare, has plenty of length and dries hard and very strong. Dries to a pale clear yellowy cream when boiled for one minute. Unboiled, has a little more greenish tone.

Muka extraction Source: Katarina Tawiri Muka extracts effortlessly and cleanly. Para removes easily.
Raranga - unboiled Source: Katarina Tawiri Even while harvesting, leaves feel soft, leathery, and pliable. Dead leaves also feel soft. Similar to Kōhunga. Edges fray, strands of muka keep separating from whenu when softening.

Information sources:

Source: Rene Orchiston Rene Orchiston Source: Katarina Tawiri Katarina Tawiri Source: Rob Smissen Rob Smissen Source: Sue Scheele Sue Scheele