Reaching heights of over 200 ft (60 m) high, this African species is the tallest tree found in that continent.
It also occurs wild in South America but in tropical Asia is considered introduced, having been planted for kapok production.
Its trunk is spiny when young and the branches are held horizontally, giving the tree a distinctive pyramidal outline.
Showy white, yellow or pale pink flowers, 6 in (15 cm) in diameter, are followed by 6 in (15 cm) long fruit.
Cultivation: They need regular rainfall, full sun, moist, well-drained soil and steady, warm temperatures.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.

The flowers of this useful tree are edible. They are used in curries for flavor and to add some color.

The roots are used as a diuretic and as a skin softener. The bark is useful for treating diarrhea and dysentery.

The sap (resin) can stop bleeding (Thai tobacco is also very good at stopping bleeding).

The flowers help sooth burns.

And finally, the seed pod is excellent stuffing for making mattresses and pillows.