Visiting cassia (cinnamon) growing region in southern China

Cinnamomum cassia, also known as Chinese cinnamon (肉桂 in Chinese), is an evergreen tree native to southern China, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia. The tree grows to 33–49 ft. tall, with grayish bark and elongated leaves that are 3.9–5.9 in. long. 

The cinnamon cassia essential oil is steam-distilled from the dried leaves collected twice a year, while the cassia bark is used widely as a flavoring agent and herb medicine. 

This past May, I had the fantastic opportunity to visit the Cassia (Chinese Cinnamon) growing region in DongXing, China, bordering Vietnam. Thanks to the hospitality of our cassia oil supplier GengYuan Flavors and Fragrances Co. Ltd., also a fellow IFEAT (International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades) member. I could see how they grow cassia, harvest cassia leaves, cassia bark, and distill oil from the dried leaves.