Ramie is commonly also known as China Grass, White Ramie or Rhea.

Ramie is a hardy perennial shrub believed to have originated in the Malay Peninsula.

Major Ramie growing countries in the world are China, Brazil, Philippines, India, South Korea and Thailand.

In India Ramie is grown in Assam and Tamil Nadu.

• Kingdom:  Plantae
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class:  Magnoliopsida
• Order: Urticales
• Family: Urticaceae
• Genus: Boehmeria
• Species: nivea

Root, Leaves, Seeds and Bark are the most economically important parts of  Ramie.

The most suitable climate for Ramie cultivation is one which is warm and humid, with an annual rainfall of at least 1000 mm.

Well established plants can tolerate drought and frost, but grow better without.

Extreme cold with less than 8°C and extreme hot with low humidity are not suitable for the germination of Ramie seeds.

Medium shade and moist condition to protect the tiny seed from the extreme cold, heat and rains drop.

Soil of the selected field should be fertile, rich in organic matter, sandy loam and well drained.

The major challenges involve Biotic and Abiotic causes.

• Biotic Causes: 
  
  • Major Pests: Hairy Caterpillar, Leaf Roller, Caterpillar, Leaf Beetle and White Grub. 
    
  • Major Diseases: Leaf Spot, Seedling Rot, Cane Rot, Eye Rot and Damping Off.
• Abiotic Causes:
  • Chlorosis