Nature Field Guide
Ceiba Kapok Tree
- Spanish name
- Ceiba / Puri
- Scientific name
- Ceiba pentandra
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “Huge buttress roots help make a mature ceiba unforgettable.”
Tati: “Let’s notice the leaves, flowers and habitat without disturbing the plant.”
Species overview
About the Ceiba Kapok Tree
A mature ceiba can rise above surrounding forest and develop large planklike roots around the base. Its leaves have several narrow leaflets spreading from one point. Young trunks may carry prickles that become less obvious as the tree grows.
The capsules contain seeds surrounded by silky fibers called kapok. This detail connects a towering forest tree with a very light material. Find the root shapes from an established trail; do not climb them or pull fibers from the tree.
Identification
Key Features of the Ceiba Kapok Tree
Large buttress roots on mature trees
Palmate leaves with several narrow leaflets
Seed capsules containing silky fibers
Habitat & range
Dry, humid and very wet lowland forests on both slopes, including Pacific, Caribbean and northern lowland landscapes.
Local observations
Native to Costa Rica. Local presence and abundance depend on suitable habitat and growing conditions.
When to observe
Leaves and growth form can be observed whenever the plant is accessible. Flowering and fruiting vary with location, weather and the individual plant; ask a local guide about current conditions.
Conservation & care
Explore with an adult on permitted paths. Observe and photograph without picking leaves, flowers or fruits. Do not taste plants or let pets chew them. Avoid climbing trees and disturbing roots, seedlings or visiting wildlife.
Threats & pressures
Protect suitable habitat, mature trees and natural regeneration. Avoid trampling, unauthorized clearing and collection.
Observation activity
Sketch the buttress roots as triangles and curves. How do they change the outline of the trunk?
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Pacific · Central Valley · Guanacaste · Northern Plains · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific · Alajuela · Guanacaste · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas · San José