The cinnamon tree, also known as Cinnamomum zeylanicum, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka.
Dried cinnamon bark It is a very popular spice used for cooking savory and sweet dishes, either ground or in the form of sticks.
It has a spicy, strong and sweet flavour and is very popular especially for baking. Cinnamon essential oil can also be made which has antibacterial, antifungal properties, and there are three different varieties which are:
Ceylon Cinnamon: It has a delicate flavor and is popularly used in Mexican dishes such as rice pudding.
Vietnamese: Known as Saigon cinnamon This variety has a slightly stronger flavour and aroma and is often used for broths.
Chinese Cinnamon: Sometimes known as cassia cinnamon, it is one of the most popular and most frequently found in supermarkets.
In addition to being a popular spice, the cinnamon tree is known for its beautiful foliage and shade.
It is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a great addition to any garden. In this article, we will provide you with tips and advice on successfully growing and maintaining a cinnamon tree.
Characteristics of the cinnamon tree
It can grow 10 to 15 m tall in its natural habitat, but It stays a little smaller if you have it at home in a pot.
Its leaves are wide, oval, bright green in color, and give off a spicy and very particular aroma when crushed.
It has small, white flowers. The bark and leaves are aromatic due to the oils they contain.
Tips for growing a cinnamon tree
El cinnamon tree You can grow it in a pot or plant it directly in the garden. You have to provide it with the optimal conditions in which it thrives, which are: in areas with heavy rainfall and high humidity.
This plant has a useful life as a shrub or as a cut tree of approximately 10 years. The best place to put it is near a sunny window and if it is outdoors in a location where the sun is not blocked by trees or large structures.
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They need heat, you can grow them from seeds, but Temperature is one of the most important factors to consider for optimal growth.
They thrive best in partial shade or full sun. In warm climates it is important that they receive morning sun and afternoon shade.
Irrigation
They need regular watering, but if they are grown in pots you have to water them when the surface layer has dried about two centimeters.
It is essential to keep the soil slightly moist at all times, but without it becoming soggy. A great option is to add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and keep its roots cool.
You must take into account that there is a separation between the trees to allow proper air circulation. This will help prevent possible fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
You can fertilize your cinnamon plant during the growing season to help it out and give it a boost. The best time to do this is 6 to 8 weeks before winter to slow down growth and prepare them for dormancy.
It is important to use a balanced formula that is rich in nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. It is best to fertilize once a month during the growing season with a slow-release compost fertilizer.
Pruning
Generally, this plant does not need pruning, but whether in pots or in the ground you can prune it lightly before winter. In reality, it is only necessary to remove dead or weak branches.
Plagues and diseases
The cinnamon tree can have some pests and the ones that attack it the most are aphids, mealybugs and mites. Also you have to monitor the plant for possible fungal infections such as root rot.
The cinnamon gall mosquito also often attacks the tree. Mosquito larvae produce abnormal growths on leaves and shoots, as a result, its foliage becomes distorted and its capacity for photosynthesis is reduced.
To avoid this problem you have to destroy the parts of the plant that are infested. using insecticides systemic and can also be very effective biological control with wasps.
To avoid these problems you can use organic fungicides that help you keep these pests at bay.
environmental stress
You also have to control the environment since it is a plant that is very sensitive to environmental stress factors.
You must protect it from frost when the plants are young, place covers on them or move them indoors during cold snaps.
Humidity is a very important factor to take into account. In dry climates, a very good option is to use moisturizing trays. to maintain the humidity levels that the tree needs.
Yellow sheets
Another very common problem with the cinnamon tree is that the leaves turn yellow. When you notice this problem, you may be watering the plant too much.
It may also appear that the plant is wilting. If you have it outdoors, you should stop watering it, but don't let the soil dry out completely. Keep an eye on rainfall and watering patterns to balance the water it's receiving and make adjustments as needed.
Brown spots on the leaves
If you find brown spots on the leaves they may be a sign of disease, more specifically it may be leaf spot.
This disease is caused by a fungus that produces irregular patches on the leaves. and over time it ends up eating away at them, but don't worry because the plant will recover if you remove the affected parts quickly.
The best thing is to add a fungicide to avoid this problem. spray the leaves with neem oil frequently.
The cinnamon tree is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a great addition to any garden. To successfully grow and maintain the cinnamon tree, it is important to choose the right cultivar for the climate zone, and Plant the tree in a well-drained and ventilated area.
It is a tree that can offer you a lot, so if you dedicate all your love and care to it you will be rewarded with its aroma and flavor to use in cooking and all the medicinal benefits.