Syzygium aromaticum
Family: Myrtaceae

The common name derives from the Latin clavus, a nail, and refers to the shape of the clove. The spice that gives such a distinctive flavor to apples, cakes, puddings and meats comes from the dried flower buds of the clove tree. Originally from the Moluccas, Zanzibar, Madagascar and the West Indies, it is an evergreen, to 9 m (30 ft), with bright yellow flowers. An orange studded with cloves emits a very pleasant, long-lasting fragrance and is thought to repel insects, and oil of cloves is one of the oldest remedies for toothache. The oil is simply rubbed onto the tooth or gum.

Cultivation

The clove is not often grown in the UK although it would succeed in the warmest parts of the south. In other regions grow in a warm greenhouse in a large pot or tub of soil-based potting compost. Provide maximum light but shade from direct sun. Pick the buds when light red and dry in the sun until they turn red-brown.

Climate

Zone 10 and above.