Ceiba sp. (Ceiba)

Ceiba sp., commonly known as Silk Floss Tree or Kapok Tree, refers to a group of large tropical trees in the Malvaceae family native to Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Asia. These trees typically develop a tall, straight trunk that may be swollen or bottle-shaped and often armed with conical spines when young. The crown is broad and open, with palmately compound leaves composed of several narrow leaflets. Flowers vary widely by species and may be white, cream, pink, red, or yellow, followed by woody pods filled with silky fibers surrounding the seeds.

This group prefers full sun and well-drained soil, with moderate watering during establishment and good drought tolerance once mature. Growth rate is fast in warm climates. Cold tolerance is limited, with damage likely below about 30F; best suited to USDA Zones 10 to 11. Ceiba species are best suited to large landscapes due to their eventual size but can be grown in containers when young.