Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree)

Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree) green thorny plant trunk close up
Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree) thick green trunk covered in sharp dark thorns

Botanical names: Bombax costatum, Bombax andrieui

Common name: Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree

Family: Malvaceae    (Formerly:Bombacaceae)

Subfamily: Bombacoideae

Origin: West Africa

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-10

Plant type: Fruit or edible
Fruit type: Fruit or edible
Large tree taller than 20 ftPlant form: Large tree
Plant mature sizeMature height: 20 ft or more
Full sunSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWatering: Moderate
Red, crimson, vinous flowersYellow, orange flowersFlower color: Red, crimson, vinous; yellow, orange
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; large gardens
Deciduous plantFoliage: Deciduous
Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsWildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
Ethnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

The straight bole is spiny, especially when young, and is covered in a thick, corky bark.

The tree is occasionally cultivated in west Africa for its edible calyx.

Similar plants: Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree)


Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree) green leaves on thorny plant branch
Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree) green pointed leaves with a thorny trunk
Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree) with green leaves on a woody plant branch.
Bombax costatum (Red-Flowered Silk Cotton Tree) palmately compound green leaves on woody stems.


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