The nutmeg tree is a large evergreen native to the Moluccas (the Spice Islands). When the fruit matures it bursts open along the groove exposing the bright attractive mace, covering the hard black, shiny shell of the seed called nutmeg. It has a nutty, warm and slightly sweet flavor. Nutmeg is used as a drug in Eastern countries and nutmeg oil is used in cosmetics and toiletries.