Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Cinnamomum zeylanicum is a tree indigenous to Sri Lanka, which produces the spice known as cinnamon. It is a member of the Lauraceae family and is also known as Ceylon cinnamon or true cinnamon.

Description

The Cinnamomum zeylanicum tree is an evergreen, growing up to 10-15 meters in height. Its leaves are ovate-oblong in shape, and it produces small, white flowers in clusters. The fruit is a purple drupe containing a single seed. The bark of the tree is the source of cinnamon spice.

Cultivation

Cinnamomum zeylanicum is primarily grown in Sri Lanka, but is also cultivated in other tropical regions such as Madagascar, Seychelles, and the West Indies. The tree prefers a hot, wet tropical climate and well-drained soil.

Uses

The inner bark of the Cinnamomum zeylanicum tree is harvested for the production of cinnamon. This spice is used in both sweet and savory dishes around the world. In addition to its culinary uses, cinnamon also has medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.

History

The use of Cinnamomum zeylanicum dates back to ancient times. It was highly prized in the ancient world, with records of its use in Egypt as early as 2000 BC. The Greeks and Romans also used cinnamon, and it was one of the first spices to be traded regularly between Europe and the East.

See also

• Cinnamomum cassia
• Cinnamomum verum
• Spice trade