An elongate, flexible, incendiary device for producing a nearly instantaneous source of flaming combustion along a linear pathway of indeterminate length. The incendiary device is provided in the form of a solid, continuous strand, such as, for example, a ribbon, tape, cord, filament, rope or tube. The device is comprised of means for rapid ignition along the longitudinal axis of the strand in co-linear arrangement with a solid or semi-solid combustible fuel composition. Upon ignition, the device produces flames from its exterior surface for a duration of time suitable for igniting nearby combustible matter. The incendiary device provides a nearly instantaneous line of fire for igniting prescribed fires, controlled burns, and backfires. A method for igniting vegetative matter over an area of land using one or more indeterminate lengths of a rapidly igniting linear incendiary strand.