puuvillakasvin

Puuvillakasvi refers to any of the plants of the genus Gossypium. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including the Americas, Africa, and India. The most commercially important species is Gossypium hirsutum, commonly known as American Upland cotton, which accounts for about 90% of the world's cotton production.

Cotton plants are herbaceous shrubs that can grow to a height of 1 to 2 meters. They have large, lobed leaves and produce flowers that are typically white or yellow, changing to pink or purple as they mature. After pollination, the flowers develop into a capsule, known as a cotton boll. When the boll matures, it splits open to reveal a mass of soft, fluffy fibers surrounding the seeds. These fibers are primarily composed of cellulose and are the source of cotton, a material widely used in the textile industry.

The cultivation of cotton requires a long, frost-free growing season and abundant sunshine. It is grown in many countries, with major producers including China, India, the United States, and Pakistan. Cotton is a significant global commodity, providing raw material for clothing, bedding, and various other textile products. Beyond fiber, cotton seeds are also a source of edible oil and animal feed. The history of cotton cultivation dates back thousands of years, playing a vital role in the development of human civilization and economies.