American Kapok
Scientific Name: Ceiba pentandra
Common Name: American Kapok
Family Name: Malvaceae
Ceiba pentandra is an exotic tree species in the Philippines that typically grows to 18-30 meters high. It prefers full sunlight and moderate watering. It has a pagoda-shaped foliage and is notable for its fluffy cotton-like seed pods. These seed pods can be used as fiber source for stuffing pillows and cushions. Its leaves also have medicinal properties and its timber is primarily used for plywood manufacturing. Despite of its many uses, there are also hazards when exposed to kapok dust and cotton for a long time. This may cause skin irritation and breathing difficulties.
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