Planta de Fique
Fique plant
Furcraea foetida
"My abundant flowers are very fragrant and attract hundreds of pollinators and I live for many years"
Fique
Fique, belongs to a type of plant called : Agave
... a natural fiber that grows in the leaves of plants in the genus Furcraea
Most attractive features:
The fique plant’s resilient fibers, extracted from its long, slender leaves, make it a valuable resource for various industrial applications.
Importance
Ecological:
This natural plant helps in oil conservation and erosion prevention, especially in areas with bad soil.
- The plant’s cultivation can help with biodiversity and habitat preservation.
Cultural:
Fique has cultural importance in regions where it is traditionally grown and processed.
- It is woven into handicrafts and artisanal products, representing local traditions, this is especially prevalent in countries like Colombia.
Social:
Fique cultivation provides employment opportunities, especially in rural areas where there are not a lot of jobs that pay well.
Economic:
The fique industry makes money through the production and sale of its fibers and related products like sacks, ropes, and mats.
- It helps local and national economies, particularly in countries like Colombia and Ecuador.
Taxonomical Classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Furcraea
Distribution in Mexico
The plant is not native to Mexico...
However, due to its economic importance, it has been introduced to other regions with similar climates and soil conditions for cultivation.
In Mexico, fique cultivation is not widespread, but there may be localized areas where it is grown
How is this plant unique in our green roof?
The fique plant is extremely unique in our green roof, since it’s the only species found in our green roof from this family, Asparagaceae. Its unique shape, its large size makes this plant look like a palm tree, separating this species from the rest in our green roof. Furthermore, this plant has no spikes or spines, making it an even more unique species.
Fun Facts
Strong Fibers - Used in industries due to their durability
Adaptability - This species is able to adapt in really harsh conditions, making it suitable for cultivation in many locations.
Floral Stem- The stem is used in the construction of houses and ladders due to it's durability and strength