Chinese Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Chinese cinnamon is an evergreen tree whose fragrant bark supplies the cassia cinnamon commonly sold in U.S. stores. The spice in a jar labeled simply “cinnamon” may come from any of several kinds of cinnamon trees.

Appearance

Growth form: It is an evergreen tree with aromatic bark.
Leaves: Glossy, narrow leaves show three strong veins rising near the base.

Look-alikes

Ceylon cinnamonCinnamomum verum

A whole cassia bark stick is thick and hard; Ceylon cinnamon forms many thin rolled layers. A photo of leaves alone may not settle the identification.

Why they get mixed upBoth are sold as cinnamon.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: Tropical and subtropical groves
Cultivation
Range: Native to southeastern China and Vietnam. In the United States, people are far more likely to encounter its dried bark than a living tree.

Cautions

Cautions: Cassia cinnamon contains . Long-term use of large amounts may be a concern for people with liver disease.

Name and classification

About the name: This tree has also been called Cinnamomum aromaticum. Its scientific name is still disputed.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: NENot EvaluatedNot yet assessed

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