Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon: Is There a Difference?

When it comes to knowing what type of cinnamon you are using in your own kitchen, do you know all of the differences between Saigon cinnamon vs Ceylon? These two cinnamon varieties are similar in their uses as well as their flavors, but are they truly different varieties from one another, and how can you learn how to tell them apart? 

In this article, we will compare and contrast Ceylon cinnamon with Saigon cinnamon so that you can fully understand the differences between them. We will go over what these plants look like as they grow, as well as what the final cinnamon products look like when they are dried. In addition, we will tell you what these two cinnamon varieties are typically used for so that you can choose the one that works best for your lifestyle. Let’s get started! 

Comparing Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon

Key Differences Between Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon

There are a few key differences between Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon. For example, Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon are two distinct cinnamon species from one another. The edible bark produced by Saigon cinnamon is thicker and more rigid compared to the delicate layers of Ceylon cinnamon bark. Both of these cinnamon varieties are used in a number of culinary capacities, but Ceylon cinnamon is more expensive than Saigon cinnamon overall. 

Let’s go over all of these differences in more detail now. 

Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon: Classification

Closely related to one another, Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon are technically two distinct cinnamon species. Both belonging to the laurel plant family, Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon trees grow very similarly to one another. However, Saigon cinnamon is more closely related to cassia cinnamon varieties, while Ceylon cinnamon is known as a true cinnamon variety. 

Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon: Description

You likely can’t tell the difference between a Ceylon cinnamon tree and a Saigon cinnamon tree upon first glance. They grow strikingly similar to one another, reaching heights of 50 to 60 feet. Most cinnamon tree varieties feature leaves that are pink or orange in their youth. These leaves turn green as they age, and both the Saigon cinnamon tree and the Ceylon cinnamon tree behave in this manner. 

One of the primary differences in comparing Saigon cinnamon with Ceylon cinnamon is the fact that Saigon cinnamon bark is typically thicker and more rigid compared to the delicate layers found within Ceylon cinnamon bark. Not only is the flavor of Ceylon cinnamon more delicate compared to Saigon cinnamon, but the spice itself is easier to grind compared to the sturdy bark of Saigon cinnamon. 

Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon: Uses

It’s no secret that both Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon are used in a culinary capacity. In fact, Saigon cinnamon is a key component of the Vietnamese noodle dish pho. However, Ceylon cinnamon is a true cinnamon variety, making it more expensive and desirable compared to Saigon cinnamon overall. Keep in mind that it all depends on the specific recipe you are hoping to make, as Ceylon cinnamon and Saigon cinnamon have specific dishes that they work best in! 

Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon: Origin and How to Grow

Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon originated in different locations, but they have very similar growing habits. For example, Saigon cinnamon originated in Vietnam, while Ceylon cinnamon originated in Sri Lanka. All cinnamon trees prefer full sunlight and high levels of humidity, thriving best in hardiness zones 10 through 12, depending on the variety. 

Saigon Cinnamon vs Ceylon: Taste and Aroma

The final and primary difference between Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon lies in their tastes and aromas. For example, Ceylon cinnamon has a much more delicate flavor compared to the bold and bitter flavor of Saigon cinnamon. However, the aroma and flavor of Ceylon cinnamon is prized given its floral notes and mellow flavor, while Saigon cinnamon is useful for its ability to pair with other spices in a more savory setting.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Diana Taliun