Chorisia Speciosa

• Botanical Name: Chorisia speciosa (syn. Ceiba speciosa)
• Common Names: Silk Floss Tree, Floss Silk Tree
• Mature Height: 30-60 feet (9.1- 18.2 meters)
• Mature Spread: 20-30 feet (6-9.1meters)
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil; tolerates various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH
• Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Foliage: Deciduous; palmate leaves with five to seven leaflets, turning yellow before dropping in fall
• Flowers: Large, showy, pink to purple flowers with creamy centers; blooms in late summer to autumn
• Fruits: Large, oval, woody seed pods that split open to release silky fibers and seeds

Uses:

• Ornamental: Ideal as a specimen tree in gardens, parks, and large landscapes due to its striking appearance and showy flowers.
• Street Tree: Suitable for wide boulevards and parkways where its dramatic form can be showcased.
• Xeriscaping: Its drought tolerance makes it a good choice for low-water gardens and landscapes.

Benefits:

• Spectacular Flowers: The Silk Floss Tree is renowned for its large, colorful flowers that create a breathtaking display in autumn.
• Unique Appearance: The spiny trunk, bottle-shaped form, and dramatic flowering make it a conversation piece and a focal point in any landscape.
• Drought-Tolerant: Once established, it requires minimal water, making it ideal for xeriscaping and drought-prone regions.
• Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract bees, birds, and other pollinators, contributing to local biodiversity.

Chorisia speciosa, or Silk Floss Tree, is an extraordinary ornamental tree that adds dramatic flair to any landscape. Its combination of showy flowers, unique trunk, and adaptability make it a standout choice for gardeners and landscapers seeking something truly distinctive.