Overview
Gossypium barbadense is a plant with a shrub habit in the genus Gossypium, part of the Malvaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Gossypium barbadense grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental.
About
Gossypium barbadense is one of several species of cotton. It is in the mallow family. It has been cultivated since antiquity, but has been especially prized since a form with particularly long fibers was developed in the 19th century. The species is a tropical, frost-sensitive perennial that produces yellow flowers and has black seeds. Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). It works well for ornamental. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gossypium barbadense
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gossypium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Gossypium barbadense size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gossypium barbadense
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to verticillium wilt
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gossypium barbadense?
Gossypium barbadense prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Gossypium barbadense need?
Gossypium barbadense grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Gossypium barbadense hardy in the UK?
Gossypium barbadense has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Gossypium barbadense?
Seed.
More in the Gossypium genus
- Gossypiumcotton
- Gossypium arboreumCeylon cotton
- Gossypium herbaceumLevant cotton
- Gossypium thurberiArizona wild cotton
- Gossypium tomentosum
