| Allspice | |
| Pimenta dioica | |
| a.k.a. Jamaica Pepper |
Medium sized tree producing small purple berries that contain one or two large seeds that make the allspice of commerce. Leaves and bark also contain the allspice scent.
Description: A small to medium sized tree to 40ft. Allspice makes an excellent container plant for indoor or
greenhouse culture. Frilly flowers are born in large clusters, followed by the small fruits, which ripen to a purple-black.
Hardiness: Mature trees will stand only short periods of light frost,
to 26F.
Growing Environment: Grow in full sun. Water regularly. Plant in well-drained soil.
Propagation: Often by seeds.
Uses: The dried seeds are used as a flavoring in numerous foods. Oil extracted from seeds, leaves, and bark is used to scent cosmetics, foods, and many other things. The principle oil extracted from allspice is eugenol, the same oil extracted from cloves.
Native Range: Native from southern Mexico through Central America and the Caribbean. Allspice is grown commercially in Central America.
