Gossypium hirsutum

Red Foliated cotton also known as Red Beauty or Red Foliated White cotton is an heirloom variety prized for its deep red stems and foliage that intensify with maturity. Young leaves begin green and gradually take on a dramatic red hue, making this variety highly ornamental. Despite its decorative features, it also produces traditional white - green cotton bolls that are soft and fibrous, though shorter in staple length than modern commercial varieties.

This variety is primarily grown for its aesthetic value in flower borders or mixed beds, but its fibre can still be harvested for small-scale spinning or crafting. The flowers are reminiscent of hibiscus blooms, usually pale yellow at first and darkening to pink or red with age. The bolls open in late summer or early autumn, revealing fluffy white or green lint that contrasts beautifully with the plant’s vivid red stems and dark green bracts.

Start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost and transplant when night-time temperatures stay above 13 degrees Celsius. Germination occurs in 10 to 21 days at around 21 degrees. The Livingseeds Germination Pad is a must for germinating cotton. Plants prefer full sun and rich, well-draining soil. Spacing should be about 45 to 75 cm between plants and 1.5 metres between rows.

Plants reach a height of 90 to 150 cm and need a long, warm growing season of about 120 to 130 days to reach full maturity. The foliage intensifies in colour as the plant matures, making it a standout feature throughout the season. While fibre yield is modest, the visual appeal makes it a favourite in educational gardens and ornamental beds.

Red Foliated cotton shows good resistance to stress and is easy to grow with minimal maintenance once established.

Standard packet contains approx. 25 seeds
Petite packet contains approx. 10 seeds