Monodora myristica

Monodora myristica, or African/Calabash Nutmeg, is a tropical, 20-35m tall evergreen tree native to West Africa. Known for its highly aromatic, woody-shelled seeds, it is a key culinary spice in soups and stews, offering a flavor similar to traditional nutmeg. It also has traditional medicinal uses for headaches and skin issues.

• Common Names: Calabash Nutmeg, African Nutmeg, Ehuru (Nigeria), Jamaican Nutmeg.
• Botanical Characteristics: It is part of the Annonaceae family, featuring glossy, large leaves (up to 45 cm), and fragrant, orchid-like, pendant flowers that are red-spotted and yellow.
• Fruit and Seeds: The fruit is a large, smooth, green, spherical berry (up to 20 cm in diameter) that hangs from long stalks. Inside are numerous, aromatic, oblongoid, pale brown seeds used in cooking.
• Habitat and Cultivation: It thrives in evergreen forests and can be cultivated, preferring well-drained, fertile soil. It is pollinated by beetles.
• Culinary Uses: The seeds are used in West African cuisine to season soups, stews, cakes, and desserts.
• Medicinal Properties: The plant is used in traditional medicine as a stimulant and stomachic, and to treat headaches and skin sores. Research suggests the seeds have antioxidant and antidepressant properties.