How Do You Grow Cinnamon

If you’ve ever wondered how do you grow cinnamon, you’re not alone. This warm, aromatic spice comes from the bark of tropical trees, and cultivating your own is a rewarding project. It requires patience and the right conditions, but the idea of harvesting your own cinnamon is exciting for any gardening enthusiast.

Let’s look at what it really takes to grow these trees, from climate needs to the final harvest.

Cinnamon trees, primarily Cinnamomum verum (true cinnamon) and Cinnamomum cassia (cassia), are evergreen perennials. They are native to Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia. Growing them successfully means replicating their natural tropical habitat as closely as possible.

This isn’t a fast crop. You’ll be nurturing a tree for a few years before you can harvest its bark. But the process itself is fascinating and the result is truly special.

What You Need to Start: Climate and Conditions

This is the most critical factor. Cinnamon trees thrive in consistently warm, humid environments.

Temperature: They need temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C-29°C) year-round. They cannot tolerate frost. Even a light frost can damage or kill the tree.
Sunlight: Young trees prefer partial shade. Mature trees can handle full sun, but in very hot climates, some afternoon protection is beneficial.
Humidity: High humidity is essential. If you’re growing in a drier climate, you’ll need to mist the leaves regularly.
Space: In the ground, these trees can reach 20-30 feet tall. They are often pruned heavily as a bush for easier harvest, but they still need room. Dwarf varieties are better for containers.

Can You Grow Cinnamon Indoors or in Pots?

Yes, absolutely. For most gardeners outside the tropics, container growing is the only viable option. Use a large pot with excellent drainage. You’ll need to bring it indoors well before any cold weather arrives. Place it in a very sunny south-facing window or use a strong grow light. Indoor air is often dry, so a humidifier or daily misting is crucial.

Step-by-Step: Planting Your Cinnamon Tree

You typically start cinnamon from seeds or cuttings. Seeds are more common but have a shorter viability period.

Source Your Seeds or Sapling: Get fresh seeds from a reputable supplier. For a head start, a young sapling from a specialty nursery is a great choice.
Prepare for Planting: If using seeds, soak them in warm water for 24 hours to improve germination. Use a well-draining, acidic to neutral potting mix (pH 5.5-7.0).
Planting Seeds: Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep in small pots. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm (around 80°F). Germination can take 2-3 weeks.
Planting a Sapling: Choose a pot 2-3 times the size of the root ball. Gently place the sapling, fill with soil, and water thoroughly.
Initial Care: Keep your new plant in a warm, humid, and shaded spot. Gradually introduce it to brighter light over a few weeks.

Caring for Your Growing Cinnamon Tree

Consistent care is key to a healthy tree that will eventually produce a good harvest.

Watering and Feeding

Cinnamon trees like moist soil but hate “wet feet.” Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, and let excess water drain away completely. Reduce watering slightly in the winter.

Feed your tree during the growing season (spring to early fall). Use a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer every 6-8 weeks. A light application of compost around the base each spring is also helpful.

Pruning and Shaping

Pruning serves two purposes: it controls size (especially in pots) and encourages the growth of new shoots, which are where the best cinnamon bark comes from. After a couple years, you can start pruning to shape the tree. Many growers prune them into a bushy shape about 6-8 feet tall for easier management.

The Harvest: How to Get Cinnamon from Your Tree

This is the payoff. You typically wait 2-3 years after planting before the first harvest. The best time to harvest is at the end of the rainy season when the sap is flowing, making the bark easier to peel.

Select Shoots: Choose straight, healthy shoots that are about 1-2 years old and about as thick as a finger.
Cut and Prepare: Cut these selected shoots at the base. Remove any leaves and side branches.
Scrape and Peel: Using a sharp knife or a special peeling tool, make a lengthwise cut down the shoot. Carefully work the bark loose from the woody core. The outer, corky layer is usually scraped off.
The Curl: The inner bark will naturally curl as it dries. You can roll multiple pieces together to form the classic “quills.”
Drying: Let the bark dry completely in a warm, well-ventilated, and shaded place. This can take 4-7 days. As it dries, it will darken to the familiar cinnamon color and become brittle.

Once fully dry, you can store your homegrown cinnamon sticks in an airtight container for years. You can also grind them into powder as needed for the freshest flavor imaginable.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with good care, you might encounter some issues.

Root Rot: Caused by overwatering. Ensure your soil drains perfectly and you let it dry slightly between waterings.
Leaf Spot or Blight: Fungal issues often from overhead watering or poor air circulation. Water at the soil level, improve air flow, and remove affected leaves.
Pests: Watch for scale, mealybugs, or spider mites, especially indoors. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use a mild insecticidal soap.
Yellowing Leaves: Could be overwatering, poor drainage, or a nutrient deficiency. Check your watering habits first, then consider a fertilizer adjustment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to grow cinnamon?

From seed, it takes about 2-3 years before you can make your first small harvest. The tree will continue to produce for many decades with proper care.

Can I grow cinnamon from a store-bought stick?

No, unfortunately. The sticks are dried and processed bark; they are not viable for propagation. You need fresh seeds or a cutting from a living tree.

What is the difference between growing true cinnamon and cassia?

True cinnamon (C. verum) is more delicate in flavor and harder to grow, requiring stricter tropical conditions. Cassia (C. cassia) is hardier, has a stronger flavor, and is often what’s sold as “cinnamon” in North American stores. The growing requirements are very similar, but cassia is often recommended for beginner growers.

Do cinnamon trees have flowers?

Yes, mature trees produce small, yellow or white flowers. They are followed by dark purple berries. The flowers have a faint, pleasant fragrance.

Is growing cinnamon worth it?

If you enjoy the challenge of growing unique plants and have the right warm, humid conditions, it is incredibly rewarding. The scent of the living tree is lovely, and the harvest is a unique experience. It’s more of a passion project than a practical way to supply all your cinnamon needs.

Growing your own cinnamon is a test of patience and a lesson in tropical horticulture. It connects you to the origin of a spice most of us only know from a jar. By providing steady warmth, humidity, and care, you can cultivate a piece of the tropics in your own home or garden and enjoy the ultimate fresh spice.