TheNaturePlanet

The Ceiba speciosa and the Bombax ceiba are often confused by people due to their similar names and appearances. In fact, although both belong to angiosperms, there are differences between them in terms of morphology, flowering period, growth habits, and practical uses.

In terms of morphological characteristics, the two have their own unique features. The lower part of the trunk of the Ceiba speciosa is swollen, the bark is rough, and it is densely covered with conical prickles, which is its unique self-protection mechanism. In contrast, the trunk of the Bombax ceiba is straight, the bark is gray, and the surface is smooth without prickles. When it comes to the leaves, the leaves of the Ceiba speciosa are palmate compound leaves, usually composed of 3 to 7 leaflets. Each leaflet is obovate-oblong in shape, with a fresh and light green color and a thin texture. The Bombax ceiba also has palmate compound leaves, but the number of leaflets is generally 5 to 7, and they are oblong to oblong-lanceolate in shape. The leaves are dark green in color and have a thick texture. The flower shapes and colors of the two are distinctly different. The flowers of the Ceiba speciosa are solitary in the leaf axils, the corolla is light purplish red with a white center, and the petals are oblong-ovate. The flowers of the Bombax ceiba, on the other hand, are clustered at the ends of the branches, bright red in color, and the petals are thick and fleshy.

There are also differences in the flowering period and growth habits. The Ceiba speciosa usually blooms from November to January of the following year, and its full blooming period coincides with the season of few flowers in autumn and winter. It likes a warm, humid, and sunny environment, and has poor cold tolerance, making it difficult to survive in areas with low temperatures. It is not demanding on the soil and can grow in a variety of soils. However, deep, fertile, and well-drained soil can better promote its vigorous growth. The flowering period of the Bombax ceiba is in March, when spring comes with blooming flowers, and its flowers bloom vigorously. The Bombax ceiba also likes a warm, dry, and sunny environment. It is relatively drought-tolerant but has poor cold resistance, and a low-temperature environment will have an adverse impact on its growth. It is suitable for growing in slightly acidic to neutral and fertile soil. Good soil conditions can ensure the healthy development of its roots and provide sufficient nutrients for the growth of the plant.

In terms of uses, the two also have their own focuses. The Ceiba speciosa has an elegant tree shape and delicate flowers, and is often planted as a street tree or an ornamental tree in courtyards, adding brilliant colors to cities and courtyards. In addition to its ornamental value, the flowers of the Bombax ceiba can also be used to make nourishing and delicious soups by boiling them. In addition, due to the strong toughness of its fibers, the cotton floss of the Bombax ceiba is widely used in the textile industry.

In short, although both the Ceiba speciosa and the Bombax ceiba are full of flowers on their trees, there are many differences between them.