Ceylon Nutmeg (සාදික්කා)
Nutmeg prefers cooler climes, so it is mainly cultivated in Sri Lanka’s central regions – in the districts of Matale, Kegalle, and Kandy.
The total extent of Nutmeg cultivation in Sri Lanka is 2788ha of which 80% of the plantations are in the Kandy district owned by small and mid-scale farmers.
Just like with Ceylon Tea, and other varieties of spices; Nutmeg, grown in Sri Lanka has developed an intricate chemical composition and a flavor complex based on the unique terroir of the country, and is identified under the geographical indication of Ceylon Nutmeg. Sri Lanka serves around 5% of the global demand for nutmeg, exporting mainly to India, UAE, the USA, Germany, and Pakistan. The country also serves around 7% of the global demand for Mace the spice, exporting to mainly India, Germany, and the UK.
History
Nutmeg is a perennial evergreen spice plant native to the Moluccas in eastern Indonesia. There is evidence that Roman priests used the smoke from burning nutmeg as incense. It was used as an expensive spice in cooking in the Middle Ages and was used as a flavoring, medicine, preservative, and was sold at a high rate in European markets at the time. Nutmeg is said to have been introduced to Sri Lanka in the early 19th century, but there is evidence that the crop was brought here by traders who had traveled the Silk Road before.
Products and Utilities
Nutmeg seeds and wasabi are the two main products. Nutmeg is extracted from both nuts and wasabi. Uses ground nutmeg and wasabi in thunapaha powder. Nutmeg and lentils are mainly used for culinary purposes to flavor curries and other food products, confectionery, and bakery products. It is also used in the preparation of beverages. Nutmeg is used as an ingredient in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. (Not to mention the use of invertebrates and script
Major Cultivation Areas
Nutmeg prefers cool climates. Therefore, the central country of Sri Lanka is best suited for growing nutmeg. The area under nutmeg cultivation in Sri Lanka is 2788 hectares and 80% of it is in Kandy District. Other major areas of cultivation are Kegalle and Matale districts.
Varieties
No specific varieties have been identified in Sri Lanka. Mother trees are selected taking into account the high yield.
(More than 10,000 fruits per tree per year), fruit set pattern, total seed wet weight 30 g, seed size (10 g wet weight per fruit), and lobster weight (1g wet weight per fruit). Can be successfully propagated by both grafting and beating. It is possible to produce female trees that bear fruit.