PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Ceiba pentandra
Kapok Tree
(L.) Gaertn., 1791
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Giant emergent tree with a massive trunk, often with conical spines when young, and enormous laminar buttresses. Its crown is wide and umbrella-shaped, and it produces capsular fruits filled with silky fiber.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
CeiboBonga
Silk-cotton tree
KapokierTaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Malvales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Malvaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Ceiba
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(L.) Gaertn., 1791
Record Completeness
93%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Dry Season
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Inhabits humid and dry tropical rainforests. As an emergent tree, it surpasses the forest canopy and is common near rivers and in alluvial zones.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a deciduous tree that can reach 70 meters in height. Its flowers open at night and exhale a pungent odor to attract pollinating bats.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
5000.0 - 7000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Buttresses or laminar sapopemas that can extend several meters to support the weight of an emergent giant.
Hydrophobic and lightweight kapok fibers that facilitate seed dispersal by air and water.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Deforestation and fragmentation of virgin rainforests that reduce the space needed for these giants.
Loss of specific pollinators (nectarivorous bats) due to land-use changes.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
For many Mesoamerican cultures, the Ceiba represents the 'Axis Mundi', the tree that connects the underworld with heaven.
It is the National Tree of Guatemala and Puerto Rico.