True Cinnamon
cinnamomum verum
Also known as: ["Ceylon Cinnamon","True Cinnamon"]
Overview
An evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka, prized for its aromatic bark used as a spice.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","fragrant flowers","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Laurales |
| Family: | Lauraceae |
| Genus: | Cinnamomum |
| Botanical Name: | Cinnamomum verum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid location or sheltered outdoor spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions, protect from harsh midday sun, adjust indoor placement for seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, loamy, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) tolerated in winter but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above leaf nodes, thin out dense areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration with chunky ingredients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced growth, or premature leaf drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are more sensitive to cinnamon than dogs. Ingestion of large amounts can lead to irritation of the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract due to the presence of cinnamaldehyde and coumarin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile small amounts of cinnamon are generally safe for dogs, large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset due to the irritant effects of cinnamaldehyde and coumarin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicCinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, is generally considered non-toxic for humans when used in culinary amounts. However, excessive consumption of its essential oil or large quantities of the bark may lead to adverse effects due to the presence of cinnamaldehyde and coumarin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed in excessive amounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is true cinnamon safe for pets?
A: Yes, true cinnamon is non-toxic to dogs and cats in small amounts.
Q: How do I grow Cinnamomum verum?
A: It requires warm, humid conditions, partial shade, and well-drained soil.
Q: Can I use the leaves of Cinnamomum verum?
A: Yes, the leaves are also aromatic and can be used in cooking or for tea.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lauraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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