Chorisia speciosa, the Silk Floss tree or Kapok tree, is a decorative tree from the baobab family that originates from Brazil and Argentina. It grows up to 20 meters high and 20 meters wide. Its spectacular blooming attracts every eye. The plant blooms mostly in autumn. The large white, pink or red flowers are very attractive and measure up to 12 cm long. The foliage is semi-persistent and light green. The leaves fall off right before blooming, so the flowers cover the entire tree. The trunk is green and has large grey spikes covering it as it gets older. It is easy to cultivate. Prune before the next blooming season. Hardiness zone 10 (1øC/35øF) in winter. Chorisia speciosa is not very resistant to frost. Under -5øC, the plant dies. It prefers a fresh environment and a soft climate. Keep your young plant away from strong winds, but always give light and sun to it. It can be cultivated in a glasshouse with a temperature over 15øC. Water regularly when the tree is growing flowers, but reduce at the end of summer and in winter.