Gracefoods

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

This spice was first introduced into Jamaica in 1788 by a Dr. Marter who also introduced clove and black pepper. There are separate ‘male’ and ‘female’ nutmeg trees and it is the female tree that bears the blossoms that will produce the fruit which is ovoid and creamy yellow. When ripe, the fruit splits, disclosing the nut that comes surrounded by a scarlet, lace-like covering called mace, which is easily removed. Mace is also commercially viable.