Cassia is primarily found in low-lying coastal areas in uncultivated fields. It grows across the globe in Central America, South China, Vietnam, Laos, India, USA and Africa. It is a medium-sized deciduous or semi-deciduous tree that grows up to 20m in height. It has a straight, cylindrical trunk and prefers cool and wet conditions to prosper. Cassia oil, extracted via steam distillation, is a dark brown, free-flowing liquid with a strong, and spicy odor.     

Demand for cassia oil is in the range of 1200-1500 MT. Volumes produced in autumn were 30% of expected quantities, while the spring crop is normal in size. Abundant rain has led to this reduction in crop size in 2024. Majority of Chinese natural benzaldehyde producers use Vietnamese cassia as a raw material. This could have resulted in a decline in the price of the Chinese variety.