Family: Malvaceae
Author: Pellegr. & Vuillet
Bibliography: Notul. Syst. (Paris) 3: 88 (1914)
Year: 1914
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Bombax
Vegetable: False
Observations: Senegal to Sudan
Description
The Red Silk Cotton, known scientifically as Bombax costatum, is an exceptional tree that commands attention through its striking characteristics and notable presence in various regions of Africa, from Senegal to Sudan. A proud member of the Malvaceae family, this tree is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the areas it inhabits, often celebrated for its vibrant and breathtaking appearance.
Described scientifically for the first time in 1914 by botanists Pellegrin and Vuillet and meticulously documented in the Notulae Systematicae, the Red Silk Cotton has continued to captivate the interest of both experts and nature enthusiasts alike.
One of the most alluring features of this magnificent species is its eye-catching floral display. The large, bright red flowers emerge in dramatic clusters, providing a brilliant splash of color against the tree’s sturdy, dark branches. These flowers not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also play a crucial role in the ecosystem, attracting various pollinators, including birds and insects.
The tree itself is robust and resilient, thriving in its natural habitats across a broad range of environments in the African continent. From Senegal’s forested regions to the diverse landscapes of Sudan, Bombax costatum has proven its ability to adapt and flourish, significantly contributing to the biodiversity of these areas.
In addition to its ecological importance, the Red Silk Cotton tree holds cultural and economic value for local communities. The fibers extracted from its seeds, reminiscent of silk, are utilized in traditional crafts and various local industries. The medicinal properties of different parts of the tree have also been acknowledged, with various cultures employing it in their traditional healing practices.
The majestic Red Silk Cotton tree stands not just as a natural marvel but also as a symbol of the intricate connections between plant life and human culture, underscoring the indispensable role it plays within its native surroundings.
Through an in-depth look at Bombax costatum, we can appreciate the extensive heritage and the vibrant life it supports, from its striking flowers and practical applications to its role in traditional medicine — all of which collectively attest to its significance in the natural world and its embeddedness in human history.
Common Names
En: Red Silk Cotton
Fr: Kapokier (a fleurs) rouge
Synonyms
- Bombax costatum var. typica (Aubrév.)
- Bombax angulicarpum var. houardii ((Pellegr. & Vuillet) A.Chev.)
- Bombax angulicarpum var. costatum ((Pellegr. & Vuillet) A.Chev.)
- Bombax andrieui (Pellegr. & Vuillet)
- Bombax costatum var. andrieuii ((Pellegr. & Vuillet) Aubrév.)
- Bombax costatum var. houardii ((Pellegr. & Vuillet) Aubrév.)
- Bombax buonopozense var. vuilletii (Pellegr.)
- Bombax angulicarpum var. andrieuii ((Pellegr. & Vuillet) A.Chev.)
- Bombax houardii (Pellegr. & Vuillet)
Distribution
- Benin (native)
- Burkina (native)
- Cameroon (native)
- Central African Repu (native)
- Chad (native)
- Congo (native)
- Gambia (native)
- Ghana (native)
- Guinea (native)
- Guinea-Bissau (native)
- Ivory Coast (native)
- Mali (native)
- Mauritania (native)
- Niger (native)
- Nigeria (native)
- Senegal (native)
- Sierra Leone (native)
- Sudan (native)
- Togo (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Dec 27, 2021 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Dec 27, 2021 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/4073451)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:112254-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Bombax costatum Pellegr. & Vuillet)