Allspice, Jamaica Pepper

Pimenta dioica (L.) Merr.

pah-MEN-tah dye-oh-EYE-ka

Myrtaceae

Explanation of name: According to CHR, generic name derived from pimiento, which was applied by Spanish explorers in Mexico who confused the aroma of the leaves with pepper.  Specific epithet means that the species is dioecious, i.e., male and female flowers on separate plants.

Natural range:  West Indies, southern Mexico, Central America

Recognition:  Small evergreen tree to 40 feet.  Leaves 4”-8” long, leathery, evergreen, opposite, oblong, aromatic.  Whitish-gray bark peels in thin sheets.  White flowers ¼” across, in many-flowered pyramidal cymes originating from leaf axils. Fruit a brown berrylike drupe about ¼” long.  Leaves and fruit with spicy fragrance.

Landscape uses:  Slow-growing small tree; good in containers or as a shrub border.  Propagate by seed. (CHR)

Notes: Cultivated extensively in Jamaica, with the dried unripe berries used as a spice in a wide range of commercial food products from pickles and ketchup to cakes, candies and beverages.  Oil from the fruit is used in perfumes, cosmetics, anesthetics for toothaches and as a digestive aid. (CHR)