No images found for this plant ID: 29744.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "29744" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
nutmeg
Scientific Name: Myristica
Family: Myristicaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Myristica fragrans: Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a well-known spice derived from the nutmeg tree.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Myristica fragrans
- Family: Myristicaceae
- Nutmeg is one of two spices derived from trees in the genus Myristica, the other being mace.
Distribution and Habitat
- Nutmeg trees are native to several Indonesian islands, specifically the Moluccas, or Spice Islands.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Myristica fragrans is described as a large, tropical evergreen tree.
- The nutmeg itself is the hard, aromatic seed found within the fruit of the tree.
- Mace is the dried, lacy membrane that surrounds the nutmeg seed.
Uses
- Nutmeg is primarily known for its culinary applications as a spice, offering a warm, spicy-sweet flavor.
- Historically, nutmeg has been used in medicine, as a narcotic, aphrodisiac, dream enhancer, and inebriant.
Quirky Facts
- Nutmeg is commonly associated with drinking due to its presence in eggnog and other holiday drinks.