Red Silk Cotton Tree - Bombax ceiba (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Red Silk Cotton Tree

Also known as: Red Cottontree, Simal, Indian Bombax, Silk Cotton, Red cotton tree, Red kapok tree, Bombax

The name of the red Silk Cotton Tree (*Bombax ceiba*) comes from the capsules it produces that are chock-full of white fibers similar to cotton. The plant is found in Asia; in India, it's popular to plant it by roads, where its gorgeous crimson blooms cheer travelers.

Scientific classification

Species

Red Silk Cotton Tree (Bombax ceiba)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Winter

Bloom Time

18 m to 23 m

Plant Height

12 m to 18 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

10 cm to 13 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Red Silk Cotton Tree

Distribution of Red Silk Cotton Tree

Distribution Map

The red Silk Cotton Tree is natively distributed across parts of South and Southeast Asia, widely recognized for its presence in subtropical and tropical forest ecosystems. It has also established itself in regions of Central America and South America beyond its native range. The plant has been cultivated in various locales, indicating its adaptability and thus broadening its geographical footprint.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hot, dry river valleys, savannah, humid lowland deciduous forests, near stream banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Red Silk Cotton Tree

Large, vibrant red flowers measuring 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) in length.

Conical fruit with longitudinal ribs and seeds enveloped in silky hairs.

Palmate green leaves with 5-7 acuminate, lanceolate to elliptic leaflets.

Robust stem with conical spines, reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in diameter.

Impressive height of 70-150 feet (21-45 meters) with smooth white bark.

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Care Guide for Red Silk Cotton Tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red Silk Cotton Tree, native to tropical regions, thrives with a watering schedule of once every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to slightly dry out. This resilient species adapts to various well-draining soils, making it ideal for outdoor growth while preventing root rot.

Fertilize: For red Silk Cotton Tree, use a balanced fertilizer with equal NPK ratios, applying quarterly. Increase to bi-monthly during growth season, considering rain. Apply at the drip line and avoid over-fertilization. Water afterwards for nutrient absorption, and consider compost for added benefits.

Pruning: With its striking red flowers and thorny trunk, red Silk Cotton Tree thrives with early spring pruning. Remove weak branches and thin crowded areas for improved light and air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning that affects blooming. Prune young plants to shape and eliminate suckers, promoting overall health and growth.

Propagation: Red Silk Cotton Tree propagates efficiently through healthy, disease-free cuttings. Applying rooting hormone aids root development. Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with adequate moisture and warmth. Careful handling during planting is essential for promoting successful establishment.

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