Other Names:  Cinnamomum cassia

Description:

The bark of this variety is used to make cinnamon spice; reaching branches of glossy, aromatic green foliage emerges in tones of pinkish red; will develop into an impressive landscape tree; plant away from structures

Ornamental Features

Chinese Cinnamon has attractive dark green evergreen foliage which emerges pink in spring on a tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. The fragrant pointy leaves are highly ornamental and remain dark green throughout the winter. The fruits are showy purple drupes displayed in mid spring. The fruit can be messy if allowed to drop on the lawn or walkways, and may require occasional clean-up. The smooth gray bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

This plant is primarily grown as an ornamental, but it's also valued for its edible qualities. The thick spicy bark is most often used in the following ways:

• Cooking
• Baking
• Seasoning
• Tea

Landscape Attributes

Chinese Cinnamon is an evergreen tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a high maintenance tree that will require regular care and upkeep, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Spreading
• Suckering

Chinese Cinnamon is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Vertical Accent

Planting & Growing

Chinese Cinnamon will grow to be about 50 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 35 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 150 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is particular about its soil conditions, with a strong preference for sandy, alkaline soils, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.