Pimenta dioica aka Allspice

Pimenta dioica, or allspice, is a tree in the myrtle family. It stays green all year. Its native range includes southern Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. It grows in lowland woods, savannahs, and on wooded slopes. Some of its native woods have limestone soils. People grew it for spice before Europeans reached the Caribbean. Growers now raise it across the American tropics. This includes Jamaica.

In gardens, trees reach about 20–40 feet [6.1–12.2 metres]. Another account gives 23–33 feet [7–10 metres] as usual. Some trees reach 66 feet [20 metres]. The spread can reach 25 feet [7.6 metres]. The tree grows slowly and forms many branches. Its leaves are leathery and oblong, and stay green all year. Their sweet, spicy scent adds interest even without flowers.

Creamy white flowers make a showy display in July. Bees visit the flowers. Male and female flowers grow on separate trees. Female trees need a male tree nearby to set fruit. The small fruits are drupes. Each is about a quarter-inch long. Growers pick them green, then dry them for allspice. Whole dried fruits keep longer than the ground spice. Their taste brings cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg to mind. People use them in sauces, pickles, and soups. They also use them in sweets and drinks.

Grow allspice in full sun with soil that drains well. It prefers rich, sandy soil with a moderate amount of moisture. Warm, humid weather suits it best, in tropical or subtropical climates. Trees can cope with some drought once established. It grows outdoors in USDA zones 10–12 but dislikes frost. Even established trees may suffer damage below 28°F. In colder places, growers can bring pots inside for winter. Use a peat-based soil mix and keep the air very humid. Potted plants may fail to flower or bear fruit.

People grow allspice for spice and as a garden tree. Its leaves give gardens interest through winter. Cooks also use the leaves for flavouring or tea. Leaf oil adds flavour to foods. People also use it in perfumes and aftershaves. The wood is hard, heavy, and fine-grained. Traditional medicine uses the fruits for gut problems and other ailments. These uses do not prove that the treatments work. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no major pest or disease problems.