Bombax costatum

Bombax costatum is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae, native to tropical regions of Africa. It is commonly known as the Red Silk-Cotton Tree or Red Kapok Tree.

Description

Bombax costatum is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height. The bark is smooth and grey, often with large conical spines, especially on young trees. The leaves are palmately compound, with 5-7 leaflets. The flowers are large and showy, with five red or pink petals. The fruit is a large capsule containing numerous seeds embedded in a mass of fibrous, fluffy material known as kapok.

Distribution and Habitat

Bombax costatum is native to tropical West Africa, from Senegal to Cameroon. It is typically found in savannah regions, often along riverbanks and in areas with well-drained soil.

Uses

The wood of Bombax costatum is lightweight and soft, making it useful for carving and making canoes. The kapok from the fruit is used as stuffing for pillows and mattresses. The seeds are edible and are often roasted and eaten in times of food scarcity. The bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments.

Conservation Status

Bombax costatum is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many tropical tree species, it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture.

See Also

• Malvaceae
• Kapok
• Tropical Rainforest