Wild Cinnamon

(Canella winterana)

Wild Cinnamon (Canella winterana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Canella winterana, commonly known as Wild Cinnamon or Cinnamon Bark, is an evergreen tree native to tropical hardwood forests, coastal woodlands, and rocky areas in the Caribbean, including the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and Barbados. It typically grows to a height of up to 30 feet tall with a dense, rounded crown. The bark is scaly and aromatic, resembling true cinnamon, and the leaves are leathery, deep green, and lustrous, often with a spicy fragrance when crushed. Wild Cinnamon produces clusters of showy, fragrant flowers that are white or rose-colored, blooming throughout the year in its native range. The fruit is a bright crimson berry that adds to the ornamental value of the tree.

Wild Cinnamon is valued for its aromatic bark, which is used as a spice, although it is not a true cinnamon. It is also appreciated for its hard, heavy wood, which is sometimes used in construction. In cultivation, it is often used as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical gardens for its attractive foliage, flowers, and fruit. It requires well-drained soil, moderate to regular watering, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it is not commonly available in the nursery trade, it can be a unique addition to a garden with the right conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 15-25 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Fragrant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Tropical hardwood forests, coastal woodlands, and rocky areas in the Caribbean

Other Names

Common Names: Winter Cinnamon , Pepper Cinnamon , Canelero De Cuba , Barbasco , Canella , Wild Cinnamon , Curbana

Scientific Names: Canella winterana , Canella alba , Canella canella , Canella laurifolia , Canella laurifolia , Canella obtusifolia , Canella winteriana , Laurus winterana , Laurus winteriana , Winterana canella , Winterana obtusifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: