Yellow Silk Floss Flower
Ceiba speciosa (A.St.-Hil.) Ravenna
Silk floss flowers are spectacular pink to wine-red hibiscus-like blooms that appear on distinctive spiny-trunked trees in fall. Native to South American rainforests, these stunning flowers symbolize strength, tropical splendor, and the resilient beauty of nature.
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
Fall and early winter (October-December) when tree is nearly bare of leaves
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: desert roses and banksias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Silk floss tree is called "toborochi" in Bolivia, meaning "tree of refuge," and "paineira" in Brazil. The spectacular fall blooms create breathtaking displays visible from great distances. Indigenous peoples have used the silky seed floss for textiles and the water-resistant bark for canoes for centuries. The dramatic spiny trunk and stunning flowers make it one of the most recognizable tropical trees. In Guaraní culture, the tree fiber is called "yvi" and was essential for traditional textiles.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for best flowering and tree development
Water
Moderate to high in summer; drought-tolerant once established but requires substantial summer water
Soil
Well-drained, Moist, Tolerates various soils, Slightly acidic to alkaline (pH 6.0-8.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Hardy in zones 9B-11; cold-sensitive below 27°F
Plant at least 15 feet from sidewalks due to surface roots
Prune young trees to develop single central trunk
Grafted cultivars bloom earlier and at smaller size
Avoid planting near high-traffic areas due to trunk spines
Flowers best in full sun with good drainage
Be prepared for 8-inch seed pods that drop in spring
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spectacular specimen tree for parks
- Street tree (where space allows)
- Shade tree with seasonal interest
- Architectural focal point
- Large landscape settings
- Wildlife habitat tree
Traditional Uses
- Seed floss used historically for stuffing pillows and life jackets
- Bark used traditionally for making canoes and rope
- Seeds yield oils for culinary and industrial use
- Petals used as threads in traditional upholstery
- Tree parts used in some traditional medicines
- Used in phytoremediation and sustainable fiber production
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Silk Floss Flower
why does the silk floss tree have spines
The trunk spines help protect the tree from animals trying to climb it, particularly when young. The spines are most prominent on juvenile trees and may decrease with age.
how long does it take for silk floss tree to bloom
Seed-grown silk floss trees can take 10-15 years to bloom, but grafted cultivars like 'Majestic Beauty' bloom earlier, often within 3-5 years at smaller sizes.
when do silk floss trees flower
Silk floss trees bloom in fall and early winter (October-December), typically when the tree is nearly bare of leaves, creating a spectacular floral display.
what is silk floss used for
The silky white floss from seed pods has been traditionally used to stuff pillows, mattresses, and life jackets. It's water-resistant, buoyant, and hypoallergenic.
is silk floss tree messy
Yes, silk floss trees can be messy. They drop large 8-inch seed pods in spring and shed leaves seasonally. Plan placement accordingly and be prepared for cleanup.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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