Also known as Indian Bark · Indian Bay Leaf · Indian Bay Leaves
Cinnamomum tamala, also known as Indian-Bark or Tejpatta, is an evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent, prized for its aromatic leaves used in cuisine and tradi
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered sunlight. Direct, intense sun can scorch the leaves.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Maintain evenly moist soil, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid standing water.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth. Light pruning can be done at any time. For shaping, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use clean, sharp pruning tools.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until they root.
Germinating seeds is also possible but slower.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably amended with organic matter. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Indian-Bark (Cinnamomum tamala)
Where Indian-Bark (Cinnamomum tamala) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Cinnamomum |
| Species | Cinnamomum tamala |
Similar in genus Cinnamomum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
