noun
cotton plant
Refers to the cotton plant itself (Gossypium spp.). Often written in kana or with 綿.
綿の花が畑に咲いている。
Cotton flowers are blooming in the field.
noun
cotton padding; batting
Refers to processed cotton used as stuffing or padding in futons, clothing, etc. Commonly written in kana.
布団に新しいわたを入れた。
I put new cotton padding into the futon.