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Introduction to the Kapok: Get to Know This Plant

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The kapok is native to India and is a large deciduous tree that grows in tropical and subtropical regions, reaching a height of 10-25 m. The kapok varies greatly in appearance and shows different colors in different seasons. Its flowers are large and beautiful, and its tree form is majestic, making it suitable as an ornamental garden or park tree or a street tree.

Other Names for the Kapok

The kapok is also known as red cotton, hero tree, Panzhihua, spotted-branch cotton, and Panzhi.

Growth Habits

Native to India, it is a large deciduous tree in the genus Bombax, family Malvaceae, order Malvales.

It prefers a warm, dry environment with plenty of sunlight.

It is not cold-tolerant, is slightly tolerant of moisture, and dislikes waterlogging.

It is drought-tolerant, pollution-resistant, and highly wind-resistant.

The optimal growth temperature is20~30°C. In winter, the lowest temperature should not fall below5℃。

Deep, fertile, well-drained neutral or slightly acidic sandy soil is preferable.

Propagation Methods

The main propagation methods are grafting and sowing.

Common Pests and Diseases

Common pests and diseases of the kapok include anthracnose, leaf spot disease, scale insects, and whiteflies.

Medicinal Value of the Kapok

The kapok is cool in nature and sweet and bland in taste. It has the effects of clearing heat, draining dampness, and detoxifying.

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