Hemp is an annual herbaceous plant of the species cannabis sativa, meaning ëuseful hempí. It is a high yield commercial fibre crop which flourishes in areas with temperate climates, such as Ontario, Canada. Hemp grows successfully at a density of up to 150 plants per square meter, and reaches a height of two to five meters in a three month growing season.
Every part of the hemp plant can be used commercially. The stalk of the hemp plant is harvested for its fibers. The fiber length and the content of cellulose and lignin are important quality parameters for raw material used in the cordage, textile, paper and fiberboard industries. The seeds are valuable for their nutritional properties, being high in protein and essential fatty acids.
