In this work, a green and efficient lignocellulose-based flame retardant (ALC) was prepared by loading ammonium polyphosphate (APP) on the lignocellulose nanofibers (LCNF) obtained from agricultural waste straw by mechanical ball milling under water system conditions. The flame retardant was added into paper pulp to prepare retardant paper and the flame retardant effect of the paper was investigated. The results showed that ALC retardants could be uniformly dispersed in the paper, contrast to the serious aggregation of APP which was directly added into the paper pulp. With only 10wt% of ALC content, the ignited paper displayed a self-extinguishing phenomenon after moving away from the fire and turned into char. The ALC paper possessed a limiting oxygen index of 36.4%. Compared with the pure paper, the maximum heat release rate and total heat release of the ALC paper were reduced by 48.1% and 77.1%, respectively. The residual carbon content was increased by 314.9wt% as well owing to the existence of lignin components in LCNF. At the same time, the mechanical properties of paper were also enhanced because of the high aspect ratio of LCNF. In conclusion, this work proposed a facile method for preparing an efficient, green, flame retardant with great potential for practical applications in paper industry. © 2023 Cailiao Daobaoshe/ Materials Review. All rights reserved.