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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Silk floss tree
(Ceiba speciosa)
Also Known As
Silk floss tree, Floss silk tree, Puffy cotton tree, Chorisia speciosa
About This Plant
Ceiba speciosa is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 82 feet (25 meters) tall. It has a broad, spreading canopy and a thick, spiny trunk. The leaves are green and palmate, with 5-7 leaflets. The flowers are large and showy, with pink or white petals and a yellow center. The fruit is a woody capsule filled with cotton-like fibers that are used to make pillows and insulation.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Up to 82 feet (25 meters) tall
Light Requirements
The Silk Floss Tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Humidity Needs
The Silk Floss Tree prefers moderate to high humidity, but can tolerate drier air. It is important to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing Schedule
The tree should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the tree.
Pruning Guidelines
The Silk Floss Tree does not require regular pruning, but can be pruned to remove dead or damaged branches. It is important to avoid pruning during the winter, as this can stimulate new growth that may be damaged by frost.
Common Pests and Diseases
The Silk Floss Tree is relatively pest-free, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor cultivation
Watering Schedule
The tree should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the winter. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Temperature Range
The tree prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-30°C). It can tolerate brief periods of frost, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can damage the tree.
Growing Season
Spring and summer
Growing Difficulty Level
Moderate
USDA Hardiness Zones
9b-11
Did You Know?
The Silk Floss Tree is the national tree of Argentina and is also known as the 'Palo Borracho' (drunken stick) because of its swollen trunk that resembles a bottle of wine.
