Bottle tree (Ceiba ventricosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bottle tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Malvaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Bottle tree
Ceiba ventricosa, also known as the Barrigudaträd, is a majestic deciduous tree native to South America, renowned for its swollen, spiny trunk that gives it a unique sculptural appearance. It grows to large dimensions and produces spectacular flowers before its leaves emerge. It is ideal as an ornamental tree in large gardens or parks, creating an impressive focal point.
Native range
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and proper development of its characteristic trunk. During its juvenile stage, it needs regular watering to establish, but once mature, it is quite drought-tolerant, although it appreciates occasional deep watering during dry periods. It prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. A common mistake is planting it in confined spaces, as its large size and robust root system require ample room.
How to save a dying Bottle tree
- Warning signs
- Abundant yellow or fallen leaves, soft or wrinkled trunk, lack of new shoots. 🌿
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, repot with new, porous substrate. If dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is fatal, rotting roots and trunk. Also extreme cold or lack of light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and trunk is firm. Act quickly. 💪