Bombax ceiba

Bombax ceiba, also known as the red silk-cotton tree, is a species of flowering tree belonging to the Bombax genus within the Malvaceae family. This tree is native to tropical regions and is known for its large, showy flowers and the seed-hair fibers obtained from its fruit.123

The tree can grow to impressive heights, reaching up to 50 meters (164 feet). Its fibers, sometimes called bombax cotton, are soft, lightweight, and buoyant, though too brittle for spinning into textiles alone. Historically, these fibers have been used for stuffing in items like life preservers, pillows, and upholstery, as well as for insulation and surgical applications. The seeds can be processed for oil, and the residue used as fertilizer or cattle feed. While the wood is used for various products, the importance of kapok fiber has diminished with the development of synthetic materials.34