Bombax ceiba

Bombax ceiba is a species of deciduous tree in the Malvaceae family, commonly known as the cotton tree. This tree is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia but is now found in many tropical regions around the world.

Description

The Bombax ceiba grows to a height of about 30 to 40 meters. The trunk is straight and cylindrical, covered with thick, prickly thorns. The leaves are palmate with 5 to 7 leaflets. The flowers are large, with five red or orange-red petals. The fruit is a capsule containing seeds surrounded by a fluffy, yellowish fiber.

Distribution and habitat

Bombax ceiba is native to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and East Asia. It is also found in Australia, Central America, and South America. This tree prefers open, sunny areas and is often found in forests, grasslands, and along riverbanks.

Uses

The wood of the Bombax ceiba is used for making furniture, while the fiber from the fruit is used for stuffing pillows and mattresses. The seeds are edible and are often used in traditional Asian cuisine. In traditional medicine, various parts of the tree are used to treat a range of ailments.

Cultural significance

In many cultures, the Bombax ceiba is considered a sacred tree. In Buddhism, it is believed to be the tree under which Gautama Buddha was born. In Hinduism, it is associated with the god Brahma.

Conservation status

The Bombax ceiba is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many tropical tree species, it is threatened by deforestation and habitat loss.

See also

• Malvaceae
• Deciduous trees
• Traditional medicine

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