Cassia

The dried bark of the Asian tree Cinnamonum cassia, used primarily as a substitute for cinnamon. While this spice resembles and is related to cinnamon, it is inferior in comparison (hence it is also referred to as false or bastard cinnamon). Cassia, which is reddish brown in color, is marketed and used like cinnamon in powdered form and in cured and curled quills of bark. Cassia buds—the dried, unripe fruits—are also used in China and elsewhere much in the manner of cloves, to lend their powerful aroma to confections and other items such as pickles. Cassia is also used in curries.