00:00Welcome to the world of the red silk cotton tree. This is not just any tree,
00:05it is a joint that can grow as tall as a certain story building.
00:10This tree is the Bombeck sea yaba, commonly known as the red silk cotton tree or sea muck.
00:15In many places it is called the harbinger of the spring because it announces the end of the winter
00:22with a spectacular show of color. Long before its green leaves appear,
00:27the entire tree covers itself in hundreds of big waxy red flowers that look like bright cups against
00:35the blue sky. These red flowers are like a busy restaurant for wildlife. They are filled with
00:41sweet nectar that birds, bees and even squirrels love to eat. While these animals enjoy their meal,
00:48they help the tree by moving pollen from one flower to another. If you look closely at a young tree,
00:53you might see sharp cone-shaped thorns on its bark. These are the trees are more protecting it from
01:00animals that might try to climb it or eat it. As the flower fades, the tree produce green parts.
01:07When these parts get old and dry, they pop open to reveal a soft, white fluffy material that looks
01:13exactly like cotton. This fluff is called the K-pop. For a long time, people have collected this silky
01:20fiber to stuff pillows and quilts because it is very soft and light. Even though it looks like cotton,
01:27it is actually waterproof which makes it very special. For centuries, people have used every
01:33parts of this tree. Some use the flowers to make traditional medicines, while others use the strong
01:39wood to make boxes or even small boards. The shiba tree's leaves are palmed, meaning that they are
01:46divided into multiple leaflets, usually three to seven, that radiate from a central point.
01:52Siba tree is a fast-coring, deciduous giant in other to tropical and subtropical Asia and
01:59northern Australia. It is known as Simul in India and Lactan in Mayamanar. It is highly valued for its
02:06striking spring blossoms, medicinal versatility, and distinctive soft fibers. Keep in mind the seed may be
02:13poisonous if ingested raw, and medical uses should always be consulted with the professional.
02:19This tree has cultural significance in different parts of the world. In China, it is the official
02:25flower of Gongzhou and a symbol of heurism in Cantonese culture. In India, various tribal communities
02:32play a role in rituals during the holy festival. In Vietnam, it is considered a national symbol and
02:38it is often planted in rice fields as the landmark. It is also used for commercial use. The softwood is
02:45used for matches, plywood, and lightweight boxes. Seed oil is used for soft making and illumination.
02:52Its nectar-rich flowers attract numerous pollinators, including birds, bees, and bats. In India,
02:58it is a preferred roasting site for vultures and eagles. It is a tree that gives life to the forest
03:04and
03:04useful gift to the humans. So the next time you see these brilliant red blossoms, remember you are
03:10looking at one of the nature's most generous and beautiful giants.
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