Bombax ellipticum var. Alba

The Bombax ellipticum var. Alba is indigenous to Southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua. Additionally, this species has been successfully introduced to Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Hawaii and Florida. This claudiciform's trunk is smooth and green with marbled gray markings. Its caudex grows specialized tissue for enhanced water storage. Branches form close to the base. Juvenile twigs typically take on a bright green color. Deciduous leaves are large and grow in 5, finger-like leaflets. Wine-red when young, leaves eventually turn dark green as pictured above.

The Bombax ellipticum var. Alba sports flower buds composed of 5 purplish petals adhered together. After maturing, flowers burst open to reveal a startling beautiful bundle of delicate, silky yellowish-white stamens (as pictured above). Stamens are 4" long, tipped with golden anthers. These unique, brush-like flowers are coveted by succulent lovers. Blooming season takes place from late winter to early spring.

No greenthumb? No problem! This is an excellent choice for novice growers. Its needs are simple and few. A moderately fast grower, this species can quickly become a garden's striking focal point. Good shade tree. Happily, this succulent is also a great candidate for a houseplant. When kept potted and trimmed, this tree can be kept to approximately 3' tall. Suitable for bonsai treatment.

Attributes:

Gardening-

1. Gorgeous flowering succulent tree
2. Excellent choice for novice growers
3. Brush-like flowers open to reveal bundles of silky, yellowish-white stamens
4. Striking focal point
5. Perfect shade tree
6. Suitable for bonsai treatment
7. Great candidate for houseplant

Synonyms:

Pseudobombax ellipticum (Kunth) Dugand
Pseudobombax fastuosum (Moc. & Sessé)
Carolinea fastuosa Moc. & Sessé ex DC.
Pachira fastuosa (Moc. & Sessé ex DC.) Decne.
Pseudobombax mexicanum (Hemsl.)
Bombax mexicanum Hemsl.
Pachira mexicana (Hemsl.) A.Terracc.