Kneaf is also known as Deccan Hemp or Java Jute.

It is annual or perennial herb native to Southern Asia.

Kenaf is cultivated for its fiber in India, Bangladesh, United States of America, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, parts of Africa, and to a small extent in southeast Europe.

Kenaf is an important fiber crop in South India. 

It is cultivated as a rainfed crop in large areas in Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

• Kingdom:  Plantae
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Order: Malvales
• Family: Malvaceae
• Genus:  Hibiscus
• Species: cannabinus

Fibers and seeds are the most economically important parts of Kenaf

Kenaf cultivation requires specific climate and land.

It requires early rains in March, May and June and intermittent rain and sunlight thereafter till August, temperature between 28°C and 35°C.

It requires humidity between 70% and 90%. 

Kenaf can be successfully grown in a wide range of soil types, from high organic peat soils to sandy desert soils. 

Although kenaf grows better on well-drained, fertile soils with a neutral pH.

Kenaf also has shown excellent tolerance to drought conditions.

• The major challenges involve Biotic causes and Abiotic causes.
• Biotic Causes: 
  
  • Major Pests: Aphid, Green Chafer Beetle, Cotton Leaf Worm, White-pupated Scallop Moth and Cotton Leaf Roller.
    
  • Major Diseases: Anthracnose, Stem Rot, Die Back, Wilting and Seedling Blight.
• Abiotic Causes:
  • Chlorosis
  • Stunted growth