Mace is the outer coat of a seed that grows on a tropical tree. It is bright red when it is opened but turns a light brownish-tan after drying. Mace is a valued spice. It is also used in many medicines. The seed itself is known as nutmeg.
Mace grows on Myristica fragrans, a deciduous tree found wild in the Molucca Islands and New Guinea. It has been planted in many localities of the tropics but thrives best in its native area. Nearly the whole surface of the Molucca Islands is covered with these trees. The tree is medium-sized with handsome, dark evergreen leaves, oval and pointed in shape.
