Canela Tree (Cinnamomum) Leaf Drop: Light and Watering Solutions

Diagnosis: Too Little Light, Too Much Water

Your canela tree (Cinnamomum kotoense) is dropping leaves because it's in a north-facing window (low light) and watered weekly. In low light, the plant uses water slowly, so weekly watering keeps roots constantly wet—leading to oxygen starvation and root rot. The yellowing, easy-to-knock-off leaves are classic overwatering symptoms.

Immediate Fixes

1. Move it to the brightest window you have (south or west ideal). It needs some direct sun.
2. Change watering: Only water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. In low light, this may be every 2–3 weeks. In brighter light, weekly may be fine.
3. Check drainage: Pot must have holes. Empty saucer after watering.

Why Light Changes Everything

Photosynthesis drives water uptake. More light = faster growth = more water used = soil dries appropriately. In dim light, the plant is essentially dormant; wet soil becomes a swamp. The axial buds you see are latent— they'll only activate with adequate light.

Summer Boost

Move it outdoors in summer to a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. This "vacation" often triggers a flush of dense, healthy growth. Bring it back inside before nights drop below 50°F (10°C).

Long-Term Care

• Fertilize monthly at half strength in spring/summer.
• Repot only when roots circle the pot (every 2–3 years), moving up just 1–2 inches in diameter.
• Prune to shape in early spring; it responds well.

Give your canela the light it craves and let the soil breathe between waterings. The leaf drop will stop, and new growth will fill in the canopy.