Bombax

The genus Bombax comprises trees belonging to the Bombacaceae family, often referred to as the bombax or kapok family. These trees are characteristic of tropical regions and are allied with the mallow family, which includes cotton plants.1

Bombax trees are known for their large, showy flowers, which can be white or scarlet. The genus includes species like the red silk-cotton tree (B. ceiba). The seed floss from these trees, known as bombax cotton, is used primarily as wadding and upholstery material. Unlike commercial cotton, bombax cotton fibers grow from the side of the seedpod and are weaker and less elastic, making them unsuitable for use as a textile fiber on their own.123