Levant cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)

Family: Malvaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Gossypium herbaceum or commonly known as Short-Staple American Cotton or Levant Cotton is a perennial shrub native to sub-Saharan Africa and Arabia. It grows up to 6 ft high with wide, hairy leaves. The flowers are small and yellow with a purple center. The plant is a minor source of cotton fibre used for making clothes, rubber-type fabrics, stuffing material for pillows and cushions, surgical dressings, twine and ropes, and carpets.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Edible portion: Seeds, Leaves, Oil. Seed - roasted. The roasted seed can be used as a coffee substitute. An oil is obtained from the seed. Used in salads or as a cooking oil. — Edible portion: Seeds, Leaves, Oil.; The roasted seed can be used as a coffee substitute.; An oil is obtained from the seed.; Used in salads or as a cooking oil.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in the wild. (Zone 9)