Chorisia speciosa, or the floss silk tree, is a species of flowering tree in the family Malvaceae, native to the Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern Brazil. The tree grows to 15–20 m tall, with a trunk up to 1 m in diameter. The bark is smooth and light grey, with a flossy white covering. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate-acuminate, with serrated margins. The flowers are white, with five petals and numerous stamens, and are borne in panicles. The fruit is a pome, pink to red in color, with a downy surface.
How to care:
The Chorisia is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 15-20 meters in height. It has a smooth, light grey bark that is covered in a flossy white substance.
To care for this tree, water it regularly and fertilize it yearly. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Prune it regularly to encourage new growth and to shape it.
Water requirement:
The floss silk tree needs regular watering, especially when young.
Fertilizer requirements:
This tree benefits from yearly fertilization.
Sunlight:
The Chorisia prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil type:
This Chorisia prefers well-drained soil.
Pruning requirements:
Prune this tree regularly to encourage new growth and to shape it.
Pest and Disease:
The floss silk tree is susceptible to pests such as aphids, scale insects, and whiteflies. It is also susceptible to diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Propagation:
The floss silk tree can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
From seed:
1. Collect the seeds from the fruits of the floss silk tree.
2. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil.
3. Water the seeds regularly.
4. The seeds will germinate in 1-2 weeks.
From cuttings:
1. Cut a 6-8 inch branch from the floss silk tree.
2. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the branch.
3. Dip the bottom half of the branch in rooting hormone.
4. Plant the branch in well-drained soil.
5. Water the branch regularly.
6. The branch will develop roots in 4-6 weeks.
Landscape uses:
The floss silk tree is often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. It can also be used as a street tree or a shade tree.