Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. (C. pentandra), also known as kapok tree, silk cotton tree or Java cotton, belongs to is a member of the Malvaceae (Bombacoideae) family and the Ceiba genus. It is found in Mexico, the Caribbean, India, Thailand, Indonesia, and South and Central America. The two nations that produce the most kapok worldwide are Indonesia and Thailand. The fiber generated by tree fruits and its distinct fiber structure are the main reasons for the C. pentandra fame. Kapok fiber is a naturally occurring plant fiber (cellulose fiber) that is abundant, biocompatible, and biodegradable. It’s interesting to note that this plant is utilized for food and fodder, as well as that its parts have therapeutic properties in addition to having a particular fiber, wood, and oils with various applications. Although C. pentandra populations may face threats from climate change throughout their existing areas of distribution, there is still potential for the in situ persistence of the most genetically diverse and unique populations. A summary of current knowledge and understanding about C. pentandra is given in this chapter. Many topics have been covered including taxonomy, economic importance, climate change, domestication, selection and early improvements, current cultivation practices and challenges, germplasm biodiversity and conservation, breeding strategies, and conclusions and prospects. Because of its important economic benefits, the kapok tree needs more studies on traditional and biotechnology breeding methods as well as the applications of artificial intelligence to the management of agricultural and industrial practices of the kapok tree.