Overview

Gossypium herbaceum is a plant with a shrub habit in the genus Gossypium, part of the Malvaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Gossypium herbaceum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental.

About

Gossypium herbaceum, commonly known as Levant cotton, is a species of cotton native to semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, as well as from Syria to Afghanistan, where it still grows perennially in the wild as a shrub.

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 herbaceum size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Shrub
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Ornamental

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Gossypium herbaceum

Propagation
Seed
Pest resistance
Susceptible to aphids
Disease resistance
Susceptible to verticillium wilt

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Gossypium herbaceum?

Gossypium herbaceum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Gossypium herbaceum need?

Gossypium herbaceum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Gossypium herbaceum hardy in the UK?

Gossypium herbaceum 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 herbaceum?

Seed.

More in the Gossypium genus

Browse all Gossypium