Nutmeg and Mace (Myristica fragrans)

Nutmeg is not a nut, but the kernel of an apricot-like fruit. Mace is an aril, a thin leathery tissue between the stone and the pulp; it is bright red to purple when harvested, but after drying changes to amber. The pulp of the nutmeg fruit is tough, almost woody, and very sour. In Indonesia, it is used to make a delicious jam with pleasant nutmeg aroma. The first harvest of nutmeg trees takes place 7-9 years after planting, and the trees reach full production after 20 years. Nutmeg and mace are usually used in powdered form. It is the only tropical fruit that is the source of two different spices.