Fibrous stuff suitable for sails (5)

I believe the answer is:

sisal

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'fibrous stuff' is the definition.
'sisal' can be an answer for 'stuff' (sisal is a kind of stuff). I'm not certain of the 'fibrous' bit.

'suitable for sails' is the wordplay.
'sails' anagrams to 'SISAL'.
Though, I'm unsure how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sisal that I've seen before include "material for painter, say?" , "constituent of rope" , "Rope-fibre made from leaves of tropical plant" , "Agave rope-fibre" , "Fibre of Mexican agave" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.