Stay in the know about wildlife, water quality, and ecosystems on Sanibel and Captiva Islands and in Southwest Florida
Meet the Natives: Cinnamon Bark
This week, we are highlighting the cinnamon bark (Canella winterana).
Cinnamon bark are listed as endangered in the state of Florida, and their natural range is concentrated to Florida’s southernmost counties. These trees can get 15-20 feet tall and grow primarily in coastal hammocks.
Cinnamon bark can grow in full sun to part shade, and well-draining to loamy soils. They are tolerant of occasional salt water inundation, and are relatively drought tolerant once established.
Despite having cinnamon in its name, cinnamon bark is not related to the well known spice cinnamon, Cinnamomum spp.,” said SCCF Native Landscapes & Garden Center Assistant Sophie Carpenter. “However, the inner bark of Canella winterana was historically used as a substitute for cinnamon!”
The outer bark is toxic to humans, and the inner bark, leaves, flowers, and fruits all have a strong cinnamon scent when crushed.
“Cinnamon bark are slow growers, so it will take some time for them to get established and put out new growth,” Carpenter said.
The trees are evergreen, and have beautiful deep green, glossy leaves. They bloom year-round, with peak blooms in the summer, producing striking small red flowers with yellow anthers. Following their blooms, cinnamon bark produces beautiful red berries.
“Cinnamon bark is a great addition to wildlife gardens,” Carpenter said. “The flowers attract both butterflies and bees, while their fruits feed a variety of bird and small mammal species.”
Incorporate cinnamon bark into your garden as an attractive and resilient specimen tree.
Learn more or purchase cinnamon bark at SCCF’s Native Landscapes & Garden Center, open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL.