Don't let the name Devil's Cotton scare you. While the seed pods are covered in irritating hairs, the inner bark of Abroma augusta contains a hidden industrial treasure: a fiber so fine and strong it was once thought to be a substitute for silk.
1. Superior Fiber Strength
The stem of Abroma augusta yields a white, lustrous fiber that is stronger than jute.
Durability: Unlike many natural fibers, it is highly resistant to water rot, making it historically prized for fishing nets and outdoor cordage.
Aesthetics: When properly retted and processed, the fibers are creamy white and silky, making them suitable for high-end sustainable textiles.
2. A Carbon-Capture Champion
Abroma augusta is a fast-growing, perennial shrub. It can be harvested multiple times a year without killing the plant (via "coppicing"). This makes it an ideal crop for regenerative agriculture and eco-friendly manufacturing.
3. Reforestation & Soil Health
Botanists now recommend Abroma augusta for soil reclamation projects in tropical regions. It is hardy enough to outcompete aggressive weeds (like Cogongrass), helping to restore degraded forest edges and riverbanks.
