Kapok Tree, Cotton Tree
Cochlospermum fraseri subsp. heteroneurum

Family: Bixaceae

What it is like

A tall shrub. It grows 3-5 m high and spreads 2-3 m wide. The young shoots are hairy. The leaves are 8-12 cm long and 10-15 cm wide. They are dark green and with 5-9 broad lobes. The flowers are 5-6 cm across and bright yellow. The fruit is a capsule 8-12 cm long and oval.

There are about 20 Cochlospermum species. Also put in the family Cochlospermaceae.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows on sandy banks in NW Western Australia. It can grow in hot, dry inland places. It needs a sunny position and well drained soil.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Root

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Kalijpa

Synonyms

Cochlospermum heteroneurum F. Muell.; Maximilianea heteroneura (F. Muell.) Kuntze;