Upland Cotton

(Gossypium hirsutum)

Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Gossypium hirsutum, commonly known as Upland Cotton, is a perennial shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. It typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and a width of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters). Upland Cotton is characterized by its broad, palmate leaves and showy flowers that are creamy white to yellow with a purple center, blooming in the summer. After flowering, it produces the economically important cotton bolls used in the textile industry.

Upland Cotton is valued for its fibers and is the most widely planted species of cotton in the world, dominating the cotton market. It is grown commercially for its fibers and as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive flowers. This plant thrives in full sun and requires medium water and well-drained soils. While it is not typically grown for its ornamental value, it can be a conversation piece in a garden setting. It is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including boll weevils and cotton root rot. Upland Cotton can become invasive in suitable climates outside its native range, so care should be taken when planting it in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical and subtropical regions including Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America

Other Names

Common Names: Mexican Cotton, American Cotton, Cotton, Bourbon Cotton, American Upland Cotton, Uplandbaumwolle, Amerikanische Baumwolle, Algodón, Algodonero Americano, Cotonnier Américain

Scientific Names: , Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium religiosum, Gossypium hirsutum var. marie-galante, Gossypium hirsutum var. taitense, Gossypium purpurascens, Gossypium hirsutum var. punctatum, Gossypium punctatum, Gossypium palmeri, Gossypium schottii

GBIF Accepted Name: Gossypium hirsutum L.