Syzygium aromaticum

Name and publication

Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L. M. Perry, Mem. Amer. Acad. Arts 18: 196 (1939).

Description

Cloves are infrequently encountered in imported potpourri. The four-parted, dark brown dried flower buds, resembling nails, are 5-15 mm long x 3-5 mm wide and heavily scented when crushed. These pieces are usually leftovers from millineries.

Nativity and distribution

Syzygium aromaticum is native to tropical Asia but cultivated elsewhere in the tropics.

Family

Myrtaceae

Synonymy

Caryophyllus aromaticus L.