| Nutmeg | |
| Myristica fragrans | |
| a.k.a. Mace |
Yellow (sometimes slightly red) colored fruit containing seeds that are the nutmeg of commerce. The bright, scarlet colored aril which surrounds the seed is known as mace and is also a prominent spice.
Description: Medium to large sized tree, up to 70ft tall.
Hardiness: Very tropical, hardy for short periods to 40-45F, but prefers constant temperatures above 55F.
Growing Environment: Nutmeg trees thrive
in very warm, humid climates. They need year-round water, but don't
like flooding. There are both male and female type trees, both are
required for pollination and fruit set. The ripe fruits often crack
open while still on the tree, revealing the beautiful aril inside.
Seeds are dried for about two months, upon which the shell is cracked,
revealing the fragrant interior.
nutmeg tree
Propagation: By seeds. Seedling grown trees usually bear in 7-9 years.
Uses: The dried nuts are arils are used as spices. There are a variety of medicinal uses.
Native Range: Native to 2 of the 7 Banda Islands, part of the Moluccas group, (islands of Eastern Indonesia, once known as the Spice Islands.)
shelled fruit, with pulp (the mace) enclosing the seed (the nutmeg spice)