Pseudobombax ellipticum, commonly called "Shaving Brush Tree" or "Dr. Seuss Tree," is a species of plant in the Malvaceae family. It is a caudex-forming tree that can produce fragrant flowers in shades from white to red, which then produce tiny seeds that can be germinated in 30 days. Super Dr. Seuss indeed.  


Light: Full sun


Water: Allow to dry down 5%


Environment: Native to Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hispaniola, Honduras, and Cuba; likes humus, well-drained soils


Toxicity: Reported to be toxic


Habit / Size: Can reach up to 60 feet in its natural habitat 


Of Note:

  • Flowers are fragrant and can be sticky if peeled back.


    *When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, help avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.