"Gossypium barbadense" is one of several species of cotton. It is in the mallow family. It has been cultivated since antiquity, but has been especially prized since a form with particularly long fibers was developed in the 1800s. Other names associated with this species include sea island, Egyptian, Pima, and extra-long staple (ELS) cotton.

Pima cotton is a superior type of cotton grown in the USA. It represents less than 1% of cotton grown in the world. What makes Pima unique to other cottons is the extra-long staple fiber that gives the cotton its premium properties: Strength, Softness and Color retention.

Pima is twice as strong as regular cotton, which makes for extraordinarily resilient products. The longer fiber resists pulling, breaking and tearing resulting in fashion and home products that are incredibly resilient and keep their form for a longer-lasting product.

Approximately 93% of Pima is grown in California in the San Joaquin Valley, 3% is grown in Arizona, 2% in New Mexico and 2% in Texas.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org