Eriodendron

/ˌɛrioʊˈdɛndɹən/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical trees known as silk-cotton trees or kapok trees, which produce fluffy, silky fiber surrounding their seeds.

Etymology

From Greek 'erion' (wool) and 'dendron' (tree), literally meaning 'wool tree.' The name describes the distinctive silky-woolly fibers that fill the seed pods of these large tropical trees.

Kelly Says

Kapok fiber from these trees was once used to stuff life jackets and mattresses because it's water-resistant and incredibly light—nature's own high-tech insulation that floats better than Styrofoam!

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