Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

Family: Myrtaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Clove, Syzygium aromaticum, is a tropical and evergreen tree growing up to 20 m in height and 30 cm in trunk diameter. It has clusters of bright red flowers located on the ends of branches. The bark is gray. The leaves are large, reddish when young and turn dark green upon maturity. The fruits are oblong, red, and fleshy, containing one or two seeds.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in a wide range of foods such as bakery products, chewing gums, ice cream, sauces and candies. — Flower buds - dried and used as a spice in a variety of foods such as cakes, baked apples and mincemeat.; The buds are sometimes chewed after meals.; An essential oil obtained from the plant is used as a flavouring in a wide range of foods such as bakery products, chewing gums, ice cream, sauces and candies.

Habitat & North American Range

Maritime forests in deep, well-drained sandy, acid loams with a pH as low as 4.5. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)