Pima cotton, Egyptian cotton

gossypium barbadense

Also known as: ["Sea Island cotton","Peruvian cotton"]

Family: Malvaceae Genus: Gossypium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A species of cotton plant known for its extra-long staple fibers, used in high-quality textiles.

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 barbadense

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun or large container in sunny patio
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Edible Gardeners
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity drops below 40%
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can be used.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering or before new growth starts.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in extreme heat to prevent scorching.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during heatwaves; ensure proper ventilation indoors.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in dormancy

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically; amend as needed.

Temperature

Warm to hot conditions (65–95°F or 18–35°C); thrives in heat but requires protection from frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during flowering.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, ceasing in winter

Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burn; fertilize after watering to prevent root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.

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

Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light, and good air circulation.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite, peat moss, and sand or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks; mature plant in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; 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 or diseased growth, shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and improve air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant, gloves.

Checklist

Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy or after flowering, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Choose right pot size, prepare new soil mix, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, adjust care 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, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water exits the pot, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during flowering and fruiting periods.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use mulch to retain moisture and improve structure.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, bud abortion, or browning leaf edges.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to root damage or death in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, use grow lights or heating mats, avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or premature fruit drop due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun, increase humidity, water more frequently, use reflective mulch.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding, flush periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Gossypium barbadense may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or stress from pests, diseases, or environmental factors, affecting overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Gossypium barbadense is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient water supply or root damage from pests or diseases, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to reduced growth.

Leaf spots on Gossypium barbadense are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency, premature leaf drop, and potential yield loss.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Gossypium barbadense can be caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay of root tissues, impaired water and nutrient absorption, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are also sensitive to gossypol, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential organ damage. Cats may be more susceptible due to their smaller size and different metabolic processes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy anemia liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing cotton plants. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs are susceptible to gossypol toxicity, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and, in severe cases, liver or kidney damage. The severity depends on the amount ingested and the individual dog's sensitivity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from cotton plants, especially seeds. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Pima cotton or Egyptian cotton, contains gossypol, a polyphenol that can be toxic in high concentrations. Gossypol affects the liver and kidneys, impairing their function and potentially leading to anemia.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Ensure proper disposal of plant waste and keep away from children.
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 Pima cotton easy to grow?

A: It requires moderate care and thrives in warm climates with well-drained soil.

Q: Can the cotton plant be eaten?

A: The seeds are not typically consumed, but the plant is non-toxic.

Q: Does it attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Malvaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","edible gardeners"]
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