Cinnamon Tree (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is an evergreen tree that will grow from 9 to 15 m tall. This species produces a superior quality of cinnamon that is highly prized by gourmet chefs and culinarians. Native to Asia, it produces a fruit that is eaten by birds, spreading the seed from one area to another. Blooms from spring to summer, followed by the production of single-seeded fruit. It has become invasive in some areas.

I. Appearance and Characteristics 

Cinnamomum verum (Cinnamomum zeylanicum, also called true cinnamon tree or Ceylon cinnamon tree) is a small evergreen tree belonging to the family Lauraceae, native to Sri Lanka. The inner bark of the tree is historically regarded as the spice cinnamon, though this term was later generalized to include C. cassia as well.

Cinnamomum verum trees are 10–15 m (30–50 ft) tall. The leaves are ovate-oblong in shape and 7–18 cm (3–7 in) long. The flowers, which are arranged in panicles, have a greenish color and a distinct odor. The fruit is a purple 1 cm (0.5 in) drupe containing a single seed.

The old botanical synonym for the tree, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, is derived from Sri Lanka’s former name, Ceylon. Sri Lanka still produces 80–90% of the world’s supply of C. verum, which is also cultivated on a commercial scale in the Seychelles, Madagascar and Tanzania.

On Borneo, Cinnamomum verum is cultivated at low elevations in Sarawak (Kuching District), Sabah (Keningau and Sandakan districts), and Kalimantan.

II. How to Grow and Care

Sunlight

True cinnamon tree flourishes in conditions of full sunlight, where it can bask in the sun’s rays for the majority of the day. This optimal lighting plays a pivotal role in true cinnamon tree’s growth, supporting robust development and healthy oil production within its leaves and bark. While true cinnamon tree can adapt to some extent to less intense light, such as partial sun, extended periods away from full sunlight may result in diminished growth and a potential decrease in the quality of its aromatic yield. True cinnamon tree is best planted outdoors in locations where sunshine is abundant, avoiding overly shaded areas that could stifle its vigor.

Temperature

Native to Egypt, Sri Lanka and India, true cinnamon tree is typically suited to USDA hardiness zones 10-11. This plant needs temperatures to be around27 ℃ in order to flourish, but can withstand temperatures as low as 20 ℃. If the temperature reaches 15 ℃, the plant may begin to decline in health. However, true cinnamon tree can be adaptable – some varieties can withstand temperatures down to 10 ℃, making it perfect as an outdoor plant in warmer climates and an indoor plant in colder climates.

Watering

Originating from a tropical environment, true cinnamon tree thrives in conditions that mimic its natural humid habitat. It exhibits a preference for consistent moisture but is adaptable to periods of lower water availability. Watering practices should align with the plant’s moderate drought tolerance, scheduling once every 1-2 weeks.

As an evergreen plant commonly grown outdoors, true cinnamon tree benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture and regulate root temperature, ensuring optimal hydration throughout its growth cycles.

Soil

The optimum soil for true cinnamon tree is well-draining with a pH value of 4.5-5.5 (so acidic). While the soil should be nutrient-rich, try to avoid heavy soils – this could lead to excess moisture retention. Peat moss mixed with sand or perlite works well.

Fertilizing

Your true cinnamon tree should be fertilized every 2-4 weeks from spring to fall, with an 8-3-9 fertilizer. A quarter cup of fertilizer per 4.5 m squared of root zone space is ideal. Be sure to spread this to the outer edges of the root zone too, so that all of the roots will benefit. Indoor plants will need to be fertilized in the winter too.

Planting Instructions

Given perfect conditions, true cinnamon tree can reach 12 m in height and up to 6 m in width, so leave at least 1.2 m of space between each plant. Choose a warm and dry day in the fall, and dig a hole 30 cm deep and twice the size of the rootball. After planting, water well. If planting in a container, make sure that it is well-draining, and at least 51 cm wide and 61 cm deep. You will need to re-pot every 2 years to accommodate your tree’s growth.

Pruning

If left to grow naturally indoors, true cinnamon tree will grow over 2.5 m tall. If desired, this shrub can be pruned down to 91 cm without causing damage. The tree can be pruned at any time of the year to prevent it from looking untidy.

When the true cinnamon tree is grown outside in the right conditions, it will produce lots of little white flowers in the summer. These will naturally die and drop off, but some choose to deadhead for aesthetic purposes.
In the summer, you may also notice small black berries growing on your tree. Again, these do not need to be pruned but can be if desired. Be aware that, although tasty-looking, the small berries that this plant produces are not edible for humans.

Propagation

Native to Sri Lanka and the Malabar Coast of India, true cinnamon tree is notable for its aromatic bark, which is harvested as a culinary spice. Propagation primarily involves sowing seeds in well-draining soil with high organic content to foster strong root growth. Success is enhanced by maintaining consistent moisture levels without waterlogging. While seeds are viable, the use of fresh specimens increases germination success. Practical tips include providing partial shade during early growth stages and ensuring soil warmth to stimulate germination.

Transplanting

The ideal time to transplant true cinnamon tree is during the gentler climes of late spring to early summer, ensuring root establishment before the heat intensifies. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and maintain consistency in the care you provide post-transplant.

Repotting

Repot true cinnamon tree every 2-3 years to support its moderate growth as a small tree. Early spring, just before the growth period, is ideal for minimizing stress. Choose a deep pot to accommodate true cinnamon tree’s root system and encourage a healthy growth cycle. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture levels and provide plenty of sunlight. With these care tips, true cinnamon tree will thrive and produce its aromatic bark.

III. Uses and Benefits 

• Medicinal uses

Cinnamon has a long history of use in traditional medicine as a digestive aid.

Preliminary studies show that cinnamon could slow symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease through the reduction of the oligomerization of beta-amyloid.

• Culinary uses

It is employed in the creation of liquors, chocolate, drinks, and spicy candies, among other things.

One of the most popular spices, true cinnamon, is produced from the bark of the Cinnamomum Verum tree.

• Other uses

Its wood is used to create plywood, cabinets, furniture, and other items. Javanicum yields sturdy wood that is used in buildings and homes.

IV. Harvesting and Storage

The trees grow as leafy bushes, usually reaching a maximum of 3 m (10 ft) in height. They are first harvested at 3 years old and continue producing well for 40–50 years. Small side branches, 1.5–5 cm (0.5-2 in) in diameter, are removed from the trees. The outer bark is removed and processed into mulch. Twigs, leaves and berries (seeds) are crushed to make cinnamon oil, a less valuable byproduct. The inner bark of the branches is loosened by being rubbed with a brass rod. The bark is then split with a brass or stainless-steel knife and peeled off as intact as possible.

Long, full ‘quills’ of cinnamon are more valuable than broken pieces. These quills are then dried over several days in the shade, then in darkness. All this work is done by hand by experienced workers; this is the most expensive part of producing cinnamon spice. Finally, the dried bark is cut into sticks or ground into powder for sale to consumers.