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Silk Floss Tree

Ceiba Speciosa

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Overview

The Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba speciosa), a striking deciduous specimen, reaches heights of 30-60 feet, with a canopy spread of up to 40 feet. Notable for its bottle-shaped trunk covered in thick, conical spines, this South American native blooms with vibrant, orchid-like pink flowers in fall before leaf drop. Hardy in zones 9b-11, it demands full sun and well-drained soil, and is drought-tolerant once established, providing dramatic visual interest in warm climates.

Sun FullWater Low, MediumZones 10–11Climate Subtropical
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — tree with pink blooms; the tree produces oval pods filled with silky white fibers, image 164

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Low, Medium
USDA zones
10–11

Shape & size

Mature height
40–60 Ft.
Mature width
20–40 Ft.

Classification

Family
Malvaceae
Climate
Subtropical

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Photos (180)

Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — The tree's trunk is one of its most distinctive features; it is thick and bottle-shaped; reaches heights of 30-60 feet
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — armed with woody conical prickles; scientifically known as Ceiba speciosa
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — the Silk Floss Tree is adorned with large and showy pink or fuchsia blossoms, image 50
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — offering a brilliant display when few other trees are blooming; these fibers can create litter when the pods
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — Each flower measures about 6 inches across, contributing to the tree's visual impact and allure; pink flowers in the garden
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — before the foliage emerges; notable for its bottle-shaped trunk covered in thick
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — the blooming flowers can completely cover the tree; recognizable by its unique and majestic stature
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — creating an unforgettable sight.<br><br>Following flowering; each flower measures about 6 inches across, contributing to the
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — these fibers can create litter when the pods open.<br><br>For best growth; tree for full
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — the Silk Floss Tree thrives in full sun exposure and requires well-draining soils; it demands full sun and well-drained soil
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — It is tolerant of different soil types but prefers those that are moderately fertile; it commands attention in any landscape
Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba Speciosa) — This tree is suited to USDA Hardiness Zones 9b through 11 and is drought-resistant once established; the blooming flowers

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