Levant cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)
Cultivate Levant cotton (Gossypium herbaceum), an Old World perennial shrub yielding short-staple fiber. Thrives in full sun in warmer climates.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Levant cotton, scientifically known as Gossypium herbaceum, is a distinctive herbaceous perennial belonging to the mallow family. While primarily known for its historical role in fiber production, it offers unique botanical interest with its maple-like foliage and hibiscus-like summer blooms. This Old World cotton variety provides a textural presence in the landscape, punctuated by developing cotton bolls.
As a species historically cultivated for its short staple fiber, Gossypium herbaceum requires significant heat to mature its fruit. In optimal zones, it functions as a perennial shrub, but gardeners in cooler regions often treat it as a dedicated annual crop or ornamental. Achieving success with Levant cotton depends heavily on providing consistent warmth and ample sunshine throughout the growing season.
Gardeners interested in unique textural plants or those with a commitment to traditional agriculture may find Gossypium herbaceum rewarding. Its fast growth and dramatic summer flowering contribute to its appeal, provided frost is kept firmly at bay during its sensitive growing period.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Malvaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Native Range: Africa, Asia
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 3-6 ft
- Spread: 3-6 ft
- Bloom Time: June to July
- Bloom Description: White to yellow and pink
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting Gossypium herbaceum should occur in late spring once all danger of frost has completely passed, as plants do not tolerate cold temperatures. Choose a site that receives full sun exposure throughout the day. The soil must be fertile, retain adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged, and drain extremely well to prevent root issues.
Since Levant cotton needs a long, hot summer, consistent medium watering is crucial, especially while the plants are establishing and during fruit development. While fertilization schedules for commercial crops vary, supplemental balanced fertilizer applied early in the season can encourage robust vegetative growth needed to support the eventual bolls. Cultivate as an annual north of Zone 9.
Maintenance for Gossypium herbaceum is moderate. Pruning is usually minimal, focused mainly on removing any weak or spent foliage in the spring. Keep an eye out for common cotton pests throughout the season; diligent inspection is the best management approach for this species.
Landscape Uses
Though primarily grown commercially, Gossypium herbaceum can serve as a highly textural and unusual feature in large garden beds or mixed borders where its tropical appearance is desired. Because it requires significant space to reach its maximum height of six feet, it works well towards the back of mixed plantings. It is best suited for gardeners seeking the novelty of growing their own true cotton fiber.
Due to its cultural needs—long hot summers and fertile soil—Levant cotton pairs well with other heat-loving annuals or tender perennials that share a similar full sun and medium water requirement, such as specific varieties of hibiscus or okra. Avoid planting it too closely to smaller, shade-loving ornamentals.
For those dedicated to the harvest, consider dedicating a specific sunny section of the vegetable garden to Gossypium herbaceum. This ensures that the plants receive the focused care necessary to fully ripen the characteristic globular pods that contain the valuable fiber.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Fruit Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Gossypium herbaceum, commonly called Levant cotton, is a perennial shrub of the mallow family that grows to 6’ tall. It is an Old World or Asiatic cotton with short staple-length fibre that is native to northern Africa, Asia Minor and India. Plants feature hairy, broad ovate, 3 to 7 lobed, maple-like leaves with heart-shaped bases and long red-tinged petioles, followed by characteristic bolls that split open to reveal white fibers.
Tolerances
No tolerances listed.
Potential Problems
Gossypium herbaceum is susceptible to a range of insect pests that target cotton production. Key threats include boll weevils, bollworms, cutworms, armyworms, loopers, cotton aphids, whiteflies, and thrips. Spidermites are also a common concern, particularly during hot, dry periods.
Disease management focuses on prevention by ensuring good airflow and avoiding overhead watering, which can encourage fungal conditions. Watch for potential issues like various rots, nematodes, and wilts. Rotation of crops, if grown annually, can help mitigate soil-borne disease buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Levant cotton suitable for?
Levant cotton (Gossypium herbaceum) is winter hardy in USDA Zones 9 through 11.
How large does Gossypium herbaceum grow?
This species typically matures to a height and spread between 3 and 6 feet.
What sun exposure does Levant cotton need?
Gossypium herbaceum requires full sun exposure to thrive and produce its cotton bolls effectively.
When does Gossypium herbaceum bloom?
Blooming generally occurs from June to July, presenting beautiful white to yellow and pink, hibiscus-like flowers.
Conclusion
Gossypium herbaceum offers gardeners a unique chance to cultivate a piece of agricultural history, deriving both ornamental beauty and potential fiber harvest from this distinctive plant. Remember that success with Levant cotton hinges upon providing ample heat, full sun, and well-drained soil compatibility with USDA Zones 9–11. Before planting, ensure your region offers the long, hot summer this Old World cotton variety demands.
Companion Planting
When selecting companions for Gossypium herbaceum, focus on plants that share its high heat and full sun requirements. Consider integrating drought-tolerant, upright flowers that won’t compete heavily for water resources during dry spells. Companion planting with herbs that naturally deter common cotton pests, such as basil or marigolds, may offer minor relief from heavy infestations like aphids or whiteflies, though heavy pest pressure often requires targeted intervention.
Seasonal Care Calendar
For perennial success in the warmest zones, begin the season by ensuring the soil is richly amended before new spring growth starts. Throughout the summer, consistent medium watering is the most critical task; allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings rather than letting the roots sit wet. In autumn, as temperatures drop, the plant will cease active growth. If grown as an annual north of Zone 9, remove and compost the entire plant after the first hard frost damages the foliage.
