Bombacaceae
Ceiba pentandra
Kapok tree · Msufi
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
A tall, fast-growing deciduous tree, the Kapok tree can reach impressive heights of up to 70 metres, often developing massive, straight, and spiny trunks with wide buttresses at the base. Its palmate leaves consist of 5-9 leaflets. The tree produces fragrant, creamy white to pink flowers that open at night, followed by large woody capsules containing seeds embedded in a silky, water-resistant fibre known as kapok.
Where it works in Kilifi
This large tropical tree thrives in full sun and prefers deep, well-drained loamy soils, making it suitable for larger gardens or landscapes along the Kilifi coast as a specimen or shade tree. Given its extensive root system and size, it should be spaced generously, at least 10 metres apart from buildings and infrastructure.
Growing notes
The Kapok tree is a fast grower, often adding over a metre in height annually. It requires abundant water during its vegetative growth period but prefers a drier spell for flowering and fruiting. This tree is intolerant of frost and should be planted in a location sheltered from strong winds, as it can be easily damaged.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: missouribotanicalgarden.org, pfaf.org, worldagroforestry.org, earthone.io, wikipedia.org, theferns.info. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.