Ceiba pentandra, the Kapok Tree or Silk Cotton Tree, is a giant tree found in Central America and South America. It grows in the rainforests of these regions. Its height can vary from 30 to 70 meters high. The trunk is grey and made up of hair-thin filaments. The root are a main feature of this tree. Its white wood is as tender as cheese and therefore makes a bad construction material. It becomes brittle when dry. The branches are at the top of the trunk and grow horizontally. The foliage is made up of large palmed leaves of about 20 cm long, of a glossy green colour. It is semi-persistent. The tree produces small white flowers that take a cream, yellow or pink tint. The flowers are nocturnal and only appear in winter and when the tree has lost its foliage. The fruits are long capsules that bend down and are brown at maturity. Hardiness zones 9-11 (-5øC/25øF,4øC/40øF) in winter. The Kapok Tree can tolerate colder climates, as long as its environment is humid. Ideally, it is cultivated in a hot and humid environment. The Kapok Tree?s soil must be rich and well-drained. It needs to be watered abundantly, because its soil must always be humid. Reduce watering during winter. It can tolerate full sun.