Floss Silk Tree

Chorisia speciosa

a.k.a. Silk Floss Tree

Gorgeous ornamental tree producing profuse amounts of large pink, purple, or red flowers followed by inedible fruits. The fruits split open when mature, releasing masses of white silkys material.

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Uses

Commonly planted as an ornamental. The silk from the fruits is used to stuff pillows, but is regrettably unable to be spun into thread.

Plant Cultivation

Fast growing tree to 30-60ft tall. The floss silk tree is fairly hardy and will survive freezes. It grows very well in both tropical and subtropical climates, and is a popular street tree, due to its beautiful blooms. The trunk is also unique, containing numerous prominent spines. Leaves drop during flowering time. Grow in well drained soil. Trees do not need a lot of water, particularly during flowering.
Propagation: Propagation is usually by seed, or grafting.

Origin and Distribution

Native to South America.

Related Species

Bombaceae
Chorisia speciosa Floss Silk Tree

Durio dulcis

Lahong

Durio graveolens Red Fleshed Durian
Durio isu Isu

Durio oxleyanus

Kerantongan

Durio zibethinus

Durian

Pachira aquatica Malabar Chestnut
Pachira insignis Guiana Chestnut

Patinoa almirajo

Almirajo

Quararibea cordata

South American Sapote

 

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