Kapok Tree

Silk Cotton Tree

Called Mufuma trees in the Dark Hemisphere, Ceiba trees in the Light Hemisphere, called Kapok trees in the the Common Tongue, and colloquially known as Silk Cotton Trees, these trees are tropical flora native to the lands around the Cota Ocean. The tree up to nearly two hundred feet tall on the major continents of Dergonhad and Ethae, but will often only grow half that in the islands of the Cota. Its roots grow wide, forming extensive buttress like supports for the tall tree.

The tree gets it colloquial name from the fibers of its seed pods that have cotton-like interior. These fibers are used by many cultures for pillows and mattress. It is difficult to spin for clothing but makes a good insulator and stuffing. Its lightweight flammable nature makes it easy to carry for journeys and a quick fire. Its seeds can be pound into powder used in cooking, and its leaves and flowers are often used in sauses. The honey produced from the tree by bees has a district flavor and deep amber color.

The tree is a sacred symbol of life to most culture of Dergonhad. Every part of the tree has a lifegiving use to the people and it is believed to be a divine gift to mankind. Many Dagmon towns have a central square where four Kapok trees are planted at each of the four cardinal directions: north, south, east and west. It is believed as long as the trees grow tall and healthy, so too does the town.

Kapok trees are though the bounded home of the Aziza. While the Aziza are not like the Nymph of Ethae, bound to a tree, the Dergonhad fairies do seem to favor dwelling in forest with abundant Kapok.