Contents
Description
Cinnamomum Verum, also known as “true cinnamon” or “Ceylon cinnamon,” is a small evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka and southern India. It is famous for its bark, which is used as a spice and has a sweet, warm, and aromatic flavor. Cinnamon has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Cinnamomum |
Appearance
Cinnamomum Verum can grow up to 10-15 meters tall but is usually kept smaller for commercial purposes. Its leaves are ovate, leathery, and dark green, measuring 7-18 cm long and 3-7 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, and the fruit is a purple drupe containing a single seed. The bark is the most distinctive feature of the Cinnamomum Verum tree, as it peels off in thin layers and has a light brown color.
Care Guide
Cinnamomum Verum requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some essential care tips:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the tree in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the tree in a location that receives partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Cinnamomum Verum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cinnamomum Verum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Scale insects: These insects suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing yellowing and wilting. Use horticultural oil to control them.
- Canker: This fungal disease causes sunken, dead areas on the bark and can eventually kill the tree. Prune off infected branches and apply fungicide.
Habitat
Cinnamomum Verum grows in tropical and subtropical regions, mainly in Sri Lanka and southern India. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cinnamomum Verum the same as the cinnamon we use in cooking?
A: Yes, Cinnamomum Verum is the true cinnamon that is used to flavor food and beverages.
Q: Can I grow Cinnamomum Verum indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Cinnamomum Verum indoors as long as you provide it with enough sunlight and keep the soil moist.
Q: How long does it take for Cinnamomum Verum to mature?
A: Cinnamomum Verum can take up to 7 years to mature and start producing bark that can be harvested.
Q: Can I use Cinnamomum Verum for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Cinnamomum Verum has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
Related Plants
- Cinnamomum cassia
- Cinnamomum zeylanicum
- Cinnamomum tamala
- Cinnamomum loureirii
References
- “Cinnamomum Verum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 July 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plant-finder/plant-details/kc/z740/cinnamomum-verum.aspx>
- “Cinnamomum Verum.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 26 July 2021. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:461978-1>
- “Cinnamon.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Accessed 26 July 2021. <https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cinnamon>
