Shaving Brush Tree



Bombax ellipticum

click pics to enlarge

Zone 9-10

Native to Mexico, the Shaving Brush is a large deciduous tree to about 30 feet suitable down to 18 degrees

Coveted for it's unique brush-like flowers in late winter (often February), the leaves are an attraction as well.  Leaves are first bright red turning a fine green as they mature

With minimal water requirements, this is a fine shade tree as well as a show stopper bloomer

This tree is suitable for bonsai treatment as well

Flowers have silky rose-pink stamens topped with yellow pollen

The wood is interesting as well, showing stripping of greens, yellows, browns and white

The ellipticum 'Album' (Pseudobombax) is highly similar except sporting white stamens and yellow pollen tips

There also is a similar-blooming tree;  the Latin is Pseudobombax ellipticum.  This plant comes in both pink and white