Cinnamomum pachypodum
(Nees) Kosterm.
gbif· cc-by-nc-sa
MBG
gbif· cc-by-nc-sa
MBG
gbif· cc-by
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Description
A shrub or small tree. It grows 2-10 m tall. The fruit is narrowly oval and red. It is 1-1.5 cm long by 0.8-1.2 cm wide. Possibly now Aiouea pachypoda (Nees) R. Rohde
Edible Uses
The fruit are eaten.
Medicinal Uses
We have no specific information for this species, but species in this genus are generally rich in essential oils with proven medicinal virtues. Species are often very similar and not always easily distinguished from each other. Many Cinnamomum species are likely to be used, particularly for treating disorders of the gastro-intestinal tract.
Distribution
It is a tropical plant. It grows in drier forests between 1,100-2,000 m above sea level.
Where It Grows
Mexico,
Cultivation
Plants are grown from fresh seeds.
Propagation
Seed - the seed of species in this genus generally has a short viability and is best sown as soon in containers as it is ripe. Remove the fruit pulp since this can inhibit germination. Soaking the seeds for 24 hours in lukewarm water hastens germination, which can take 1 - 6 months at 20°c. The germination rate of fresh seed is about 50%, falling to 25% for seed 6 months old, and zero for those 1 year old. Stored seed should be sown as soon as possible in containers. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions when 10cm or more tall. Cuttings of semi-ripe side shoots, 7cm with a heel, in a frame with bottom heat.
