Canella

Botanical Name: Canella Alba
Common Name: White Wood Tree

Canella is a straight tree from 10 to 50 feet in height, branched only at the top. The bark is whitish and the leaves alternate, oblong, thick, and of dark, shining, laurel green. The flowers are small, and seldom open. The fruit is an oblong berry containing four kidney shaped seeds and turns fron green to blue and then to a glossy black.

Uses
Dried canella is an aromatic stimulant and tonic. All over the world canella is common as spice and condiment. It is used in stir fry with a touch of cinnamon and is popular in herbal teas. Because of its fine aromatic odour it is widely used in several recipes for flavor. Its delicious flavor is due to the presence of an essential oil. It is the most common baking spice. It is also a potent component for potpourris. It is considered to be a symbol of prosperity, love magic and protection. Dried canella can also be used in incense, dentrifrices and perfumes.

Delicious apple pie mix can be made using canella scent and luscious apples. This pie can be a wonderful gift to a friend. Canella berries can be displayed in may ways. Set them in a wood bowl. Add rosehips to them for a super scent. They make good decoratives. Dried canella berries are mixed with several dried materials like gingerbread, apple, and rosehips to make fragrant potpourris.