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True cinnamon tree

How to identify True cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum verum)

True cinnamon tree, also known as Cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon

True cinnamon tree is a small evergreen tree characterized by its aromatic, leathery leaves that are dark green in color and measure about 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. The leaves are oval in shape with a pointed tip and three distinct veins running the length of the leaf. The bark is typically rough and brown, which can peel in long strips. This plant produces small, white flowers in umbels, later giving way to dark blue berries about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in diameter.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify True cinnamon tree

1

Distinct white flowers in panicle inflorescences with unpleasant scent.

2

Ovoid drupe fruit transitioning from green to dark purple with cinnamon aroma.

3

Large lanceolate leaves with 3 parallel yellow veins, vibrant green color.

4

Slender aromatic stem with pale brown color, inner reddish-brown bark.

5

Robust trunk with valuable aromatic bark, peeling in layers, up to 30 feet tall.

True cinnamon treeTrue cinnamon treeTrue cinnamon treeTrue cinnamon treeTrue cinnamon tree

Detailed Traits of True cinnamon tree

Leaf Features

True cinnamon tree features large, lanceolate leaves that can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. These leaves are characterized by 3 distinct yellow veins running parallel from the base to the tip, providing a unique pattern. The leaves are often a strikingly vibrant green, while younger leaves may exhibit a reddish tint. Their surface is generally smooth and slightly glossy. The distinct vein pattern and color variations make true cinnamon tree easily identifiable.

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Flower Features

The flowers of true cinnamon tree display a cream to white hue, each measuring about 1/8 inch (3 mm) across. They arise in both axillary and terminal panicle inflorescences. Despite their small size, these flowers are notable for their unpleasant scent. The petal arrangement is simple yet consistent, contributing to the overall modest appearance. These blooms are key for plant identification through their color, panicle formation, and notable odor, which are distinctive characteristics.

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Stem Features

The stem of true cinnamon tree is slender and cylindrical, with a smooth texture and pale brown to light gray color. Measuring up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter, it exhibits a branched pattern that becomes more pronounced with maturity. The stem is aromatic, releasing a characteristic sweet-spicy scent when cut or bruised. It has an inner bark that reveals a reddish-brown hue, with a rougher texture compared to the outer surface. This bark is often harvested for its valuable properties.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of true cinnamon tree is a distinctive ovoid drupe, approximately 0.6 - 0.8 inches (1.5 - 2 cm) in length, which transitions in hue from a fleshy green to a dark purple upon maturation. This colorful outer shell encases a single seed within its core. While the fruit carries a hint of the plant's signature cinnamon scent, it itself is not employed in the cultivation of cinnamon spices. Its textured exterior along with the unique cinnamon aroma contributes to its identification.

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Key Facts About True cinnamon tree

Attributes of True cinnamon tree
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
10 m to 15 m
Spread
4.5 m to 9 m
Leaf Color
Green
Bronze
Flower Size
3 mm to 6 mm
Flower Color
White
Yellow
Green
Fruit Color
Purple
Lavender
Stem Color
Green
Red
Yellow
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of True cinnamon tree

Family
Laurel
Icon allow
Species
True cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum verum)
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Distribution Map of True cinnamon tree

True cinnamon tree is indigenous to parts of South Asia and Southeast Asia, thriving in a native habitat that spans a region renowned for rich biodiversity. Its growth has expanded to multiple continents where true cinnamon tree has been introduced, particularly in tropical and subtropical climates. While cultivation is not the focus here, it is crucial to note that in certain areas, true cinnamon tree is sometimes thought to be possibly affecting local ecosystems, especially where its role as an introduced species may tread the fine line of becoming invasive, as has been observed in the Pacific Islands.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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