Cochlospermum

/ˌkɒkloʊˈspɜːrməm/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical plants in the Cochlospermaceae family, known for producing large yellow flowers and silky seed fibers used in traditional textiles.

Etymology

From Greek 'cochlis' (spiral) + 'sperma' (seed), the genus name directly describing the plant's defining characteristic of spiral-arranged seeds.

Kelly Says

Cochlospermum seeds produce silky fibers that indigenous peoples in Africa and Asia have used for centuries to stuff pillows and mattresses—it's called kapok, and it's one of nature's most efficient insulators.

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