Nutmeg spice is made from the seeds of nutmeg plants.
Nutmeg plants are a dioecious, tropical plant in the Mysticans genus of flowering plants. Nutmeg is the name of the spice that is derived from the seeds of these plants, specificallly Myristica fragrans, a plant native to Indonesia. Nutmeg plants are an important economic crop for many small islands, such as the Moluccas and the West Indies, due to the spices (nutmeg and mace) that are made from the fruits. Nutmeg plants grow well in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zone 11.
Description
Nutmeg plants are medium-sized evergreen trees that can grow up to 65 feet. The plants have opposite, oval leaves that are deep green and 10 inches long. The trees begin to flower and produce fruits after six to eight years of healthy growth. The fruits are small drupes that closely resemble apricots. When the fruits mature, the husk cracks open to expose the inner seed. Nutmeg plants can produce fruits for over 60 years.
Growing Requirements
Nutmeg has a slow growth rate and requires warm, tropical conditions with a temperature range between 77 and 90 degrees F. The plants grow best when planted in rich, well-drained soils. Nutmeg plants can be grown from seeds or by vegetative cuttings. The young trees require at least 50-percent shade cover for the first several years of their development, then reduced gradually each year until nutmeg plants are seven years old and can tolerate full sun. Regular irrigation is important to encourage healthy root development and abundant fruit production. Nutmeg plants do not need to be fertilized, but the area around the base of the plant should always be kept free of weeds or other plants that compete with soil nutrients.
Harvesting Spices
Spices are produced through a harvesting and curing process. The fruits are harvested when they split open, and the red outer husk of the seed is removed and set aside to dry. The outer husk contains mace. The inner seed is set in the sun and turned two to three times each day to dry. The nutmeg inside the seed dries out and peels away from the hard seed coat. When the nutmeg rattles freely inside the seed, the seed is broken open and the nutmeg harvested.
Uses
Nutmeg and mace are important ingredients in many common products. Both nutmeg and mace have strong aromatic properties due to the high content of volatile essential oils. Nutmeg is a common ingredient in soda drinks as well as holiday beverages such as egg nog. Mace is used as a distinctive spice in many meat dishes, and both spices are used to flavor baked goods.
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