Levant Cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)

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Sunlight Requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and cotton boll production; tolerates partial shade but may reduce yield

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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil

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Temperature Thrives in warm, frost-free temperatures; cannot survive prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C

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Leaf: Alternate, palmately lobed, 5–10 cm wide, green with fuzzy undersides
Flower: Pale yellow to pink, 3–5 cm diameter, fading to red after pollination
Fruit: Oval bolls, splitting open to reveal white cotton fibers surrounding brown seeds

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Prioritize phosphorus-rich feed during flowering to support boll formation

Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid pest attraction and odor

Pruning

Pinch young shoot tips to encourage branching and increase boll production
Remove yellowing or diseased leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Trim back dead stems after harvest to prepare the plant for dormancy or next growing season

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Ingestion of seeds may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy

Humans: Raw seeds contain gossypol, which causes gastrointestinal distress when ingested in large quantities

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Culture: Symbolizes purity, utility, and textile heritage in regional folklore

Usage: Commercial cotton fiber production; ornamental garden plant with decorative bolls