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Ceiba pentandra
Ceiba pentandra
Ceiba pentandra
Ceiba pentandra

Ceiba pentandra

TAXONOMY

FamilyMalvaceae
GenusCeiba
Zone10

ABOUT

Ceiba pentandra, commonly known as the Kapok tree, is a large tropical tree native to Central and South America, as well as parts of West Africa. It is known for its impressive height, often reaching up to 70 meters, and its large, buttressed trunk. The tree produces a light, fluffy fiber known as kapok, which is used in various applications such as stuffing for pillows and life jackets. The Kapok tree prefers seasonally dry tropical climates and has a dormancy period during the dry season.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Capoc
Fromager
Gossampinus Alba
Gossampinus Rumphii
Kapok
Kapokier
Kapoktree
Kapok Tree
White Silk Cottontree
White Silk-Cotton Tree
Bombax cumanense
Bombax guineense
Bombax guineensis
Bombax inerme
Bombax mompoxense
Bombax occidentale
Bombax orientale
Bombax pentandrum
Ceiba anfractuosa
Ceiba caribaea
Ceiba casearia
Ceiba guineensis
Ceiba guineensis var. ampla
Ceiba guineensis var. clausa
Ceiba occidentalis
Ceiba pentandra f. albolana
Ceiba pentandra f. grisea
Ceiba pentandra var. caribaea
Ceiba pentandra var. clausa
Ceiba pentandra var. dehiscens
Ceiba pentandra var. indica
Ceiba thonnerii
Ceiba thonningii
Eriodendron anfractuosum
Eriodendron anfractuosum var. africanum
Eriodendron anfractuosum var. caribaeum
Eriodendron anfractuosum var. guianense
Eriodendron anfractuosum var. indicum
Eriodendron caribaeum
Eriodendron occidentale
Eriodendron orientale
Eriodendron pentandrum
Xylon pentandrum

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
To care for Ceiba pentandra, provide it with plenty of bright, direct sunlight and ensure it is planted in a location with moderate temperatures. The tree thrives in high humidity and should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry. It is important to mimic its natural seasonal dry periods to ensure healthy growth.
Soil
Ceiba pentandra prefers well-draining loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be kept relatively dry between waterings, especially during its dormancy period. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
Fertilize Ceiba pentandra with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer every few months to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormancy period.
Repotting
Ceiba pentandra is not typically grown in pots due to its large size. However, if grown in a container during its early stages, repotting should be done when the tree outgrows its current pot. Choose a larger container with good drainage and fresh loam soil.
Propagation
Ceiba pentandra can be propagated from seeds. Collect seeds from mature pods and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. Germination can take several weeks.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and health of Ceiba pentandra. Prune during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.
Toxicity
Ceiba pentandra is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with any plant, it is best to keep it out of reach of small children and pets to prevent any accidental ingestion.
Additional
Ceiba pentandra is a majestic tree that can provide shade and beauty to large landscapes. It is also an important ecological species, providing habitat and food for various wildlife. Ensure it has enough space to grow to its full potential.
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How To Grow Ceiba pentandra | EarthOne