Levant cotton
gossypium herbaceum
Also known as: ["Arabian cotton","Levant cotton"]
Overview
A species of cotton plant native to the Arabian Peninsula, cultivated for its fibers and seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Gossypium |
| Botanical Name: | Gossypium herbaceum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in full sun, or large container in sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun with partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from harsh midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid north-facing windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; apply to soil, not leaves; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F / 24–29°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; 3–6 months to establish a strong plant.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips, selective branch removal, cutting just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape plant, encourage bushier growth, improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, clean up debris, disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare soil, inspect roots, prune if necessary, repot carefully, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use a cactus mix as base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, yellowing leaves, bud drop.
Cold Stress
Growth cessation, leaf damage, potential death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, use a heat mat, cover with a frost cloth, avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun, increase watering, use mulch to retain moisture, improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGossypium herbaceum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to felines. As with any plant, ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGossypium herbaceum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines. However, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGossypium herbaceum, commonly known as Levant cotton, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is primarily cultivated for its fiber and seeds, which are used in textile and oil production, respectively. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingestion or contact with the plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gossypium herbaceum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the primary uses of Gossypium herbaceum?
A: It is primarily cultivated for its cotton fibers and seeds, which are used in textiles and oil production.
Q: How difficult is it to grow Gossypium herbaceum?
A: It requires moderate care, with attention to soil and water conditions, making it suitable for intermediate gardeners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
