What Type of Plant Is Cotton?

Classification

• The cotton plant belongs to the Malvacae family in the genus Gossypium, along with the mallow, the baobob tree and about 1,500 other species. The Gossypium hirsutum variety accounts for most of the agricultural cotton produced worldwide.

Description

• Wild cotton plants grow up to 10 meters tall, while the domesticated varieties rarely exceed two meters. After the plants' five-petaled flowers bloom, the petals fall off to reveal pods called cotton bolls. These pods then open to expose the cotton fibers within.

Fibers

• The fluffy white fibers produced by cotton plants consist of a carbohydrate called cellulose. Many fibers of this cellulose twist together to form the substance's familiar appearance and consistency.

Cultivation

• Cotton, while native to tropical climates, will grow in any warm, sunny environment. Its cultivation dates back to 3,200 B.C. Currently, 65 countries develop cotton for its fibers, oils and seed products for livestock feed.