An aromatic spectacle producing an iconic spice of the Caribbean, the Allspice tree should be an alluring option for any tropical or subtropical garden. The producer of the famous Allspice, as the name suggests, Allspice combines the taste of many different spices such as Cloves, Pepper, Nutmeg and Cinnamon. Allspice is made from the ground, dried berries of the tree and is widely used in cuisines throughout the world but is closely associated with its native Caribbean, where it is an important spice used in the beloved Jerk seasoning, in addition to other marinades, desserts and liqueurs. Allspices leaves are also highly aromatic and can be used in cooking similar to Bay Leaves. Native to the the tropical rainforests of Central America and the Carribean, the Allspice tree prefers tropical conditions characterised by plentiful rainfall, high humidity and year-round, warm temperatures. Allspice will however tolerate subtropical conditions and drier periods are tolerated in more monsoonal climates. Allspice are particularly cold-sensitive when young, although mature trees will reportedly tolerate temperatures to -3 degrees for a very brief time, although this may result in damage and provided temperatures warm considerably during the day. A well-draining, rich sandy-loam soil is ideal for cultivation in addition to a full sun position once mature. Allspice are particularly well-suited to cultivation in containers, where plants can receive optimal soil conditions and be moved either indoors or into protected warm locations during cool temperatures. Allspice plants are often diecious (either a male or female plant) but can sometimes by monoecious (with male and female flowers on the same tree), of particular importance given the spice is derived from the plant’s berries which require pollination to form. Where the berries and resulting spice (rather than solely the fragrant, ornamental leaves) are desired it is recommendable to plant two or more trees. Allspice may struggle to fruit in cooler, marginal climates, however, they are an ornamental splendour with a magnificent fragrance and spectacular bloom, well worth growing either in marginal or tropical climates. The highly decorative leaves of the Allspice are leathery and fragrant, borne densely due to the compact nature of the tree which is well-suited to small spaces and heavy pruning. The attractive foliage is offset against the grey-whitish trunk of the tree and its beautiful, creamy inflorescences of small white flowers with long white stamens typical of Myrtaceae. Plants grow up to 12m in ideal tropical conditions but are easily kept at a manageable height where the aromatic berries are easily harvested. A delightful spice borne on a gorgeous specimen tree, easily maintained and with wide culinary uses.
Please reach out to us (Contact & Socials) if you come across any broken links, incorrect details, or if you represent an online nursery that sells the products mentioned above.
Hortiforum 