The Cieba (Kapok, in English) tree opens its seed pods and is filled with fluffy cotton-like balls at this time of year.
The Cieba is a sacred tree of the Mayas, who believed it was responsible for sustaining the universe. This tree is located between the Hola Market and Emmanuel’s Experiences restaurant in West Ajijic. The Cieba is covered with thorns to keep birds from contaminating its branches and trunk. The silky fibers are the most sustainable fiber available today and are used for stuffing for bedding and life preservers.