Tree Cotton

gossypium arboreum

Also known as: ["African Cotton","Asiatic Cotton"]

Family: Malvaceae Genus: Gossypium Category: Flowers

Overview

A small tree or shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its fluffy cotton bolls and ornamental value.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Gossypium
Botanical Name: Gossypium arboreum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in full sun, protected from strong winds
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for intense summer sun with partial shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in heat but requires protection from frost.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature drops.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F/21–24°C), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of branches to maintain shape and improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased parts, shape the plant, clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.

Checklist

Choose new pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
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 mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root damage or death in freezing conditions.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; protect with frost cloth in cold weather.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and potential bud drop in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type, dilute properly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Gossypium arboreum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting overall plant health and productivity.

Wilting in Gossypium arboreum is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage from pathogens, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Gossypium arboreum are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, such as Alternaria or Xanthomonas, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Gossypium arboreum can be caused by fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Rhizoctonia, leading to plant decline and death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly susceptible to gossypol toxicity, which can result in severe liver and kidney damage. The effects can be rapidly progressive.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting loss of appetite dehydration jaundice acute kidney failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access any part of the plant. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

Dogs are particularly sensitive to gossypol, which can lead to severe metabolic and organ damage. Even small amounts can be harmful.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy jaundice kidney failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep all parts of the plant out of reach of dogs. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Gossypium arboreum contains gossypol, a polyphenol that can cause toxicity when ingested in significant quantities. Gossypol affects liver and kidney function, leading to metabolic disturbances.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tree Cotton suitable for indoor growing?

A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in tropical or subtropical climates.

Q: Does Tree Cotton produce usable cotton?

A: Yes, it produces fluffy cotton bolls, though the fiber quality is typically less refined than commercial cotton varieties.

Q: How often should Tree Cotton be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Quick Reference
Family: Malvaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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