What is the scientific name of the clove tree?
The scientific name of the clove tree is Syzygium aromaticum. This evergreen species reaches heights of up to 20 meters and features large leaves with crimson flowers growing in terminal clusters.
Questions about Clove
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When were cloves first discovered in the western world before Roman times?
Archaeologist Giorgio Buccellati discovered cloves in Terqa Syria within a burned house dated 1720 BC. This finding represents the first evidence of cloves used in the west before Roman times and was reported publicly in 1978 by researchers studying the site.
How did the word clove originate from Latin and Greek terms?
English speakers first used the word clove during the 15th century via Middle English from Anglo-French clowes de gilofre. The term traces back to the Latin word clavus meaning nail and derives from the Greek phrase karyophyllon which literally translates to nut leaf.
Which countries currently lead global clove production today?
Current leaders include Indonesia Madagascar Tanzania Sri Lanka and Comoros. Indonesia produces the most but exports only 10 to 15 percent of its total output while domestic shortfalls sometimes require imports from Madagascar to meet demand.
What percentage of essential oil extracted from cloves is eugenol?
Eugenol comprises 72 to 90 percent of essential oil extracted from cloves. This compound drives the characteristic aroma found throughout the spice and shows toxicity to test organisms at concentrations of 50 75 and 100 mg per liter.