Definition

Proper noun * A species of tree: Bombax malabarica is the scientific name for a large, deciduous tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, particularly India and Southeast Asia. It is commonly known as the red silk-cotton tree or semal tree. The tree is known for its striking red flowers and its seed pods that contain a silky, cotton-like fiber.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The vibrant red flowers of Bombax malabarica are a spectacular sight in spring.
  • Botanists study the growth patterns of Bombax malabarica in its native habitat.
  • The fiber from Bombax malabarica has been used traditionally for stuffing pillows.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and scientific contexts: The name is used precisely to identify this specific species within the genus , distinguishing it from related trees like (kapok).
  • The specimen was definitively identified as Bombax malabarica.

Variants and Related Words

• Common names: Red silk-cotton tree, Semal tree, Indian kapok, Silk cotton tree.
• Scientific synonym: (Note: There is taxonomic debate, and is often considered synonymous with or a variety of ).
• Genus: (the genus containing silk-cotton trees).

Synonyms

• Red silk-cotton tree
• Semal tree

Related Terms (Contextual)

• Kapok: Refers to the superior fiber from the related tree, often contrasted with the fiber from .
• Deciduous: A type of tree that sheds its leaves annually, which describes .
• Silk-cotton: The fluffy fiber surrounding the seeds of this and related trees.

Noun

1. East Indian silk cotton tree yielding fibers inferior to kapok