Ceiba insignis

white silk-floss tree
Bottle-trunk tree is covered in spikes. Semi-deciduous crown often drops leaves in fall to display hibiscus-like white flowers. Drought tolerant once mature; grows quickly with summer water.
height 20–40ft
width 15–35ft
tolerates Drought, Heat, Pots
water
needs
Low – Moderate
water
info
Occasional deep watering in summer will speed growth but tolerates drought once established.
hardy
to
25F
exposure Part Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor
Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix
fertilizing All Purpose
origin W South America
california
native
No
sunset
zones
12–24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Fertilizer will boost growth significantly. Can be transplanted at large sizes and tolerates root pruning.
Prefers a warm aspect in coastal zones, especially north of Santa Barbara.

Special Interest

Large football-shaped fruits split open to reveal fluffy “silk floss,“ profuse threads attached to the seeds that act as parachute-like agents of dispersal and have been used to stuff pillows. (Dandelion seeds disperse similarly.)