What is the scientific name of the cotton plant?

The cotton plant belongs to the genus Gossypium, which is part of the Malvaceae family. This genus encompasses several species of cotton, each contributing to the textile industry in different ways. Gossypium species are cultivated for their fiber, which is spun into yarn and used to make fabric. The identification of Gossypium as the correct answer is vital for understanding the classification of cotton within botanical taxonomy.

The other options represent different plant genera: Malva is a genus that includes mallow plants, Helianthus refers to sunflowers, and Hibiscus encompasses a variety of flowering plants. While all of these belong to the same broader family (Malvaceae), they do not specifically refer to the cotton plant itself. Understanding this classification helps clarify the relationship among different plants in agricultural and ecological contexts.