Levant cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)

Levant cotton

Also known as: Syrian Cotton, Wild Cotton, Arabian cotton, Short-staple cotton

Levant cotton is a perennial shrub native to Africa and Arabia. Its seed pods burst open, revealing heads full of cotton fibers. This fiber is used for spinning and is then made into textiles and clothing.

Scientific classification

Species

Levant cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

61 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Levant cotton

Distribution of Levant cotton

Distribution Map

Levant cotton is native to the semi-arid regions of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia. It has been introduced and is cultivated in various warm, temperate to tropical areas across the globe, including parts of Southern Europe, the Middle East, and the larger Mediterranean basin. Its cultivation status extends to certain regions in Southeast Asia, East Asia, South America, and the Caribbean.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Levant cotton

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Levant cotton thrives in arid conditions with strong drought tolerance and minimal water needs, requiring weekly watering. It prefers well-drained soil and withstands dryness. As an evergreen outdoor plant, occasional rain showers supply natural irrigation.

Fertilize: To enhance levant cotton's growth and fruiting, apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer bi-monthly during spring and summer. Use 1/4 strength for young plants and up to 1 cup for mature levant cotton. Water before application and reduce frequency in autumn to avoid over-fertilization.

Propagation: Levant cotton is a perennial shrub valued for its soft fiber in textiles. Propagation through cuttings is effective, requiring healthy, vigorous sources for robust growth. Essential factors include a well-draining, fertile medium, consistent moisture, and adequate light for successful establishment.

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