Tree Cotton (Gossypium arboreum)

Family: Malvaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Gossypium arboreum is a SHRUB growing to 5 m (16ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant is not wind tolerant.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves. The seeds contain a large amount of oil, which can be used as a substitute for olive oil. — The seeds contain a large amount of oil, which can be used as a substitute for olive oil.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild location. (Zone 10)