Manila hemp

n.
  1. A fibrous material obtained from the abaca plant (Musa textilis), a plant allied to the banana, growing in the Philippine and other East India islands; -- called also by the native name abaca. From it matting, canvas, ropes, and cables are made.
  2. A Philippine plant (Musa textilis) having leafstalks that yield Manila hemp used for rope and paper etc.; called also the abaca.