Sisal is a strong, stiff natural fibre obtained from the leaves of the agave plant Agave sisalana. The plant is native to Mexico and takes its name from the port of Sisal on the Yucatán coast, from which the fibre was once shipped. The long, creamy-coloured strands are coarse but very hard-wearing, and they take dye well, making sisal suitable for rope, twine, sacking, matting and floor coverings.
In historic houses sisal and related plant fibres have long been used for practical floor coverings in passages, back stairs and service areas, and for cordage in stables, gardens and on board ship. In modern interiors woven sisal matting has become a favourite neutral ground for antique furniture and old rugs, its textured, slightly rustic surface suiting both country-house and contemporary schemes. Laid wall to wall or bound as a large rug, it provides a calm backdrop that allows a good Persian carpet, oak chest or painted piece to stand out. Sisal is tougher than jute but marks easily with water, so spills should be blotted rather than scrubbed, and it is best kept out of damp rooms.
