Malvaceae
Gossypium barbadense
Sea Island Cotton · Pamba
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This charming shrub is famed globally for its exceptional extra-long staple fibres, renowned for producing high-quality textiles. It also displays attractive, creamy-yellow flowers that mature into characteristic seed capsules, bursting open to reveal fluffy white cotton bolls.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, Sea Island Cotton makes an excellent ornamental shrub or a low, informal hedge in Kilifi gardens. Consider planting it where its unique bolls can be admired, allowing sufficient space for its mature spread.
Growing notes
This moderately fast-growing shrub requires regular watering when young but becomes more drought-tolerant once established. It flourishes in the warm, humid climate of the Kenya Coast, needing minimal care beyond occasional pruning to maintain shape.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.