How does nutmeg develop?
Nutmeg comes from the seed of a tropical tree, while mace comes from the reddish covering around that same seed.
Structure, development and life cycle
The fleshy fruit splits at maturity, revealing a hard seed wrapped in a bright aril. The dried aril becomes mace, while the dried seed kernel becomes nutmeg. Trees commonly have separate male and female individuals, so pollination matters in orchard design. A seedling's sex and crop quality may not be known early.
Growing, uses and cautions
Warm humid sheltered conditions and non-waterlogged soil are preferred. Young trees may benefit from shade, and maturity takes years. Nutmeg is used in small culinary amounts. Large doses can be toxic, so being natural does not mean unlimited consumption is safe.
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