Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the bark of one of a dozen or so
species of trees native to Indonesia. This species is Cinnamomum cassia,
which is commonly known as Ceylon or Chinese cinnamon. Because the bark
of this species is thicker than others, the sticks, or quills, are
chunkier in appearance.
While powdered cinnamon is a popular baking spice, the whole sticks are
used to add sweet spiciness to hot cocoa, tea and coffee with the added
benefit of serving as a stirring tool. Cinnamon quills are also used to
add flavor to mulled wine and fragrance to simmering potpourri.
