Ceiba pentandra, also known as kapok, has several names such as "kapok tree," "tropical cotton tree," "Caribbean cotton," or "silk cotton." It is a large tropical tree belonging to the Malvaceae family and is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions of America, Africa, and Asia.
Here are some features of this plant and its seeds:
Tree: Ceiba pentandra can grow to enormous sizes, reaching heights of 50 to 70 meters. It has a tall trunk with a branching crown forming at the top.
Leaves: Kapok leaves are palmately compound, consisting of 5-9 leaflets that can be up to 20 cm long. They are light green with very bright hues.
Flowers: Kapok flowers are very large, about 15 cm in diameter, and have a pronounced fragrance. They are typically white but can also be pink or red.
Fruit: Kapok fruits are long pods containing many seeds. The seeds of the kapok are covered in brownish fibrous hairs, giving them a resemblance to cotton.
Usage: Kapok is used in textile production and holds significance in the local culture and folklore of various countries, often considered a sacred tree.
This plant is an important part of tropical forest ecosystems and plays a significant role in preserving biodiversity and ecological balance.