Long bast fibres obtained from the stems of linden plants, Corchorus capularis (white jute) or Corchorus olitorius (Tossa jute). Jute probably originated in the Mediterranean region and was taken to India and south-east Asia where it flourished. Jute has been used by man since prehistoric times. The pale brown fibres are soft, lustrous and coarse ranging in length from 4 to 10 feet. Microscopically, the fibres exhibit irregular, long cells with a visible lumen. Jute is composed of cellulose (69%), lignin (18-20%) with some uronic anhydride (4.5%). The brittle fibres are used to produce a thread called hessian. Jute becomes so weak when wet that a thin twine can be broken by hand. It turns brown and degrades with time, sunlight, water, acids, alkalis and bleach. Synonyms: Tossa jute; white jute; Indian jute; hessian; Bengal hemp; Calcutta hemp. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (2000). [J. Cassar, R. de Angelis]