A deciduous, or semi-evergreen, tree growing to 40 m (130 ft.) with wide-spreading branches and palmate leaves. The flowers are followed by large pods, containing seeds protected by white, fluffy, silky-textured padding, collected to make kapok.
History and traditions
The Ceiba is the national tree of Guatemala and was held sacred by the ancient Mayans of Central America. They believed it grew through the center of the universe, with its roots in the nine levels of the underworld, its trunk in the thirteen levels of the upper world and its branches in heaven. The myth still prevails in the area, that this graceful tree is the home of the temptress, Ixtobai, recognizable by her backward-facing feet, who lures unfaithful husbands to disappear with her into the underworld through the trunk.
Growth
Requires a temperature of 15°C (59°F). Grown in fertile, moist, but well-drained soil and full sun. Usually propagated by cuttings.
Uses
Medicinal
The bark and leaves are made into decoctions, taken internally, for bronchial and respiratory infections, or applied externally in the form of baths. The leaves are boiled in sugar to make cough syrup and applied as a compress for headaches, fevers and sprains.
Culinary
The seeds are toxic, but an edible, non-toxic oil is extracted from them which is used locally for cooking.
