Ceiba pentandra KAPOK TREE (10 seeds)

Kapok tree, also known as the Silk-cotton tree or Ceiba, belongs to the Bombacaceae family. It is a large, fast-growing tropical tree that holds symbolic and sacred significance in Mayan mythology. It is native to Java, South America, Central America, and Africa.

At maturity, it can easily reach over 25 meters in height and 10 meters in diameter. Its trunk is imposing and slender, covered in smooth gray bark adorned with thorny protrusions that protect it from herbivores. The trunk also features a bulge at its base, allowing it to store water and nutrients—an adaptation to occasionally dry tropical environments.

The deciduous foliage is lush and dense, consisting of large palmate leaves with up to seven bright green, glossy leaflets that provide generous shade. The flowering is spectacular, usually occurring in spring. The large, cup-shaped flowers are white or cream, sometimes tinted with pink or red, and grow in clusters that attract numerous pollinators.

The fruits are elongated, woody capsules up to 30 centimeters long. Upon ripening, these capsules burst open to release a light, fluffy fiber known as kapok.

Ceiba pentandra seeds are round, brown, and about the size of a pea.

- Uses:

Kapok Production and Unique Properties

The fine, silky hairs covering the seeds are used for the production of kapok, a vegetable fiber derived from its fruit that commonly replaces cotton. It is uniquely rot-resistant and, above all, waterproof. It is also called the "cheesemaker tree" (fromager) because its wood is used to manufacture cheese boxes.

Traditional Uses and Heritage

Traditionally, this tropical tree was used in traditional medicine across Africa, South America, Western and Southern India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. In the West Indies, the root was renowned for its benefits to the body. Herbalists use it in combination with other local plants to treat numerous ailments.

Safety Warning

Do not use this plant for its medicinal properties without the advice of a healthcare professional.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best time to sow Kapok tree seeds starts in June, when temperatures are sufficiently warm.
• Soak the seeds for 24 hours in lukewarm water.
• Use a seed tray with an acidic pH substrate, such as peat.
• Bury the seeds 4 to 5 millimeters deep.
• Gently press down the soil and water delicately.
• Place the tray in a warm, humid spot (like a greenhouse) at a temperature of at least 30°C.
• Germination typically begins 3 to 4 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type:

Recommended to use a well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic substrate. It thrives in soils rich in organic matter. Avoid compacted or heavy clay soils that retain too much water.

- Exposure:

This large tropical tree requires full sun. It thrives in open spaces with direct sunlight for most of the day.

- Temperature & Hardiness:

It prospers in warm temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. It is not hardy and does not tolerate temperatures below 10°C. Outside of tropical zones, it must be grown indoors or in heated greenhouses.

- Watering:

Requires regular watering, especially during active growth and after initial planting. However, let the soil dry between waterings to prevent root rot.

- Propagation:

Primarily done by seeds. Cuttings are possible but less common.

- Pests and Diseases:

Silk-cotton tree can be susceptible to scale insects, aphids, and fungi. Regular monitoring is necessary to detect early infestations.