Red Silk Cotton Tree
Bombax ceiba
Bombax ceiba
About this plant
Bombax ceiba, commonly known as the Red Silk Cotton Tree, is a large deciduous tree known for its striking red flowers that bloom before the leaves appear. It has a thick trunk with conical spines and broad spreading branches. The tree produces fluffy seed pods filled with cotton-like fibers. It is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks and along streets for its beautiful flowers and shade.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Bombax
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malvales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Native to tropical Asia including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season, especially young trees. Once established, it tolerates some drought but benefits from occasional deep watering.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. Fertilize once or twice a year to support healthy growth and flowering.
Bombax ceiba is a hardy tree that prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It tolerates dry conditions once established but needs watering during prolonged dry spells. It is generally low-maintenance but may require pruning to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Bright red flowers, large spreading form, unique spiny trunk, and fluffy seed pods.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Safe to plant in gardens and public spaces.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Bombax ceiba produces pollen that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its flowering season. People with pollen allergies may experience sneezing, itchy eyes, or runny nose. To reduce exposure, avoid being near the tree when it is flowering and keep windows closed if pollen levels are high.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf spots and occasional pest infestations like caterpillars or aphids. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and poor drainage should be avoided.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental tree for its striking flowers and shade. The cotton-like fibers from seed pods have been used traditionally for stuffing and insulation.
Notes
Prune after flowering to shape the tree and remove dead or crossing branches. Young trees may need protection from strong winds. The tree drops leaves and flowers seasonally, which may require cleanup in urban settings.