The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Esparto \Es*par"to\, n. [Sp.; cf. L. spartum Spanish broom, Gr.
   ?.] (Bot.)
   A species of Spanish grass (Macrochloa tenacissima), of
   which cordage, shoes, baskets, etc., are made. It is also
   used for making paper.
   [1913 Webster]