Bombax ceiba (Red Silk-cotton Tree) is a large deciduous tree native from tropical and subtropical Asia through New Guinea to northern Australia. It grows mainly in wet tropical regions and has been introduced to parts of the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. Young trunks commonly bear stout conical prickles, while older trees develop a broad crown.

The large flowers often appear on bare branches before new foliage develops. Five thick red petals curve outward around a dense column of red filaments tipped by dark anthers. The fruits are capsules containing many seeds embedded in silky fibers. This floss has been used for stuffing, while the wood, flowers, bark, gum, and other plant parts have documented local uses across Asia. The species is assessed globally as Least Concern. Photographed in Colombia.