Ceiba insignis

Sunset

Zones 12, 13, 15-25, 27, H1, H2

Full

Moderate

White Floss Silk Tree
Bombacaceae
Deciduous, Evergreen, Trees

CEIBA

Native to South America. Heavy trunk is studded with thick spines; it is green in youth, turns gray with age. Leaves divided into spoon leaflets like fingers of a hand, drop during autumn flowering or whenever temperatures fall below 27°F/ –3°C. Large, showy flowers somewhat resemble narrow-petaled hibiscus blooms. Fast drainage and controlled watering are keys to success. Water established trees about once a month during growing season; ease off in late summer to encourage more flowers. Need little pruning except to remove wayward or dead growth.

Ceiba insignis

To 50 ft. tall and wide. White to pale yellow, 5–6-in. flowers. Blooms from fall into winter; stopped by frost.