Nutmeg or Myristica fragrans flourishes in humid, warm tropical climates. The trees prefer well-drained fertile soil with good water retention properties. Clay loam, red laterite soils, and sandy loam are ideal for its growth. Nutmeg is native to spice islands in south pacific. They are evergreen trees with shiny, dense, and aromatic leaves which have a dark green hue. These leaves produce tiny pale yellow, fragrant flowers that open at night.

The fruit produced is shaped like a pear, is yellow orange in colour and contains the spice nutmeg. The aril of the seed produces mace. Kerala is the biggest producer of Nutmeg in India with approximate volumes of 17,212 tons in 2023-24. Andaman and Nicobar Islands produced 2,562 tons, while Karnataka produced 471 tons. Nutmeg is popular as a spice and is used for medicinal purposes due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The essential oil derived from nutmeg is used in perfumes and as a natural flavouring extract.