The Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as the True Cinnamon Tree or Ceylon Cinnamon, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia. This tree is renowned for producing the spice known as true cinnamon, which is derived from its inner bark.
Here are some key features and care tips for the True Cinnamon Tree:
-
Appearance: The tree can grow up to 32-49 feet (9.7-15 meters) tall. It has dark green, ovate leaves that are about 3-7 inches long. The young leaves emerge with a pink hue and gradually turn dark green.
-
Flowers: The tree bears clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in the spring, which eventually turn into small, dark purple fruits.
-
Light: Prefers full sun to part shade.
-
Water: Requires consistent watering but allows the soil to dry between waterings.
-
Soil: Thrives in acidic potting medium, ideally a mix of half peat moss and half perlite.
-
Temperature: Suitable for USDA zones 9-11 and can survive frosts down to 32°F (0°C).
The True Cinnamon Tree is not only valued for its aromatic bark but also for its leaves, which can be used similarly to bay leaves in cooking. The bark is harvested by peeling off the outer bark and then scraping off the inner bark, which curls into quills as it dries.