Nutmeg

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is an evergreen tropical tree native to the Maluku Islands, also known as the Spice Islands, of Indonesia. The tree can grow up to 20 metres tall and belongs to the nutmeg family (Myristicaceae).

Nutmeg is particularly famous for producing two different spices from the same fruit. Inside the fruit is the seed, which is the nutmeg used in cooking. The seed is surrounded by a red, net-like covering called an aril, which is dried and sold as the spice mace. The fruit resembles a small apricot, and when it ripens, it splits open to reveal the distinctive red aril surrounding the seed.

For centuries, nutmeg was one of the world's most sought-after and expensive spices. In Europe, it was used both as a seasoning and as a medicine, and the nutmeg trade generated enormous wealth. Competition for control of nutmeg production led to conflicts between European colonial powers, which vied for dominance of the Spice Islands.

Today, nutmeg is cultivated throughout many tropical regions, but the plant remains an important source of spice. Its warm, aromatic flavour is used in both sweet and savoury dishes around the world.

Facts:

Location in the greenhouse: The Tropical House
Danish name: Muskat
Scientific name: Myristica fragrans
Family: Nutmeg family / Myristicaceae
Native range: Maluku Islands, Indonesia

Learn more about other plants here.