Cotton Tree, Kapok Tree, White Silk Cotton Tree

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: South America, but spread around the tropical regions of the world, some authors cite Africa and India as countries of origin

Growth Habits: Large drought deciduous tree, up to 150 feet (45 m) or more; spiny trunk, up to 9 feet in diameter (2.7 m), buttressed; palmately compound leaves, 5 to 9 entire leaflets, 3 inches long, up to 6 inches (7-15 cm)

Watering Needs: Moderate water, drought resistant

Propagation: Seeds, cuttings

Cultivated commercially for Kapok production.

Blooming Habits:
Creamy-yellow to rose-pink to white flowers, with 5 petals, opening often before the leaves open.

Fruiting Habits:
oblong to ellipsoid, smooth, pendulous, fruit, 3 to 6 inches long (7-15 cm), the inside filled with abundant soft long hairs ("kapok" or silk-cotton), and many round brown seeds