African nutmeg (ilomba)

Pycnanthus angolensis

spice

Nutmeg-like seeds, used as a spice in Central Africa.

Origin

Forests of tropical Africa, from Senegal to Zambia

Where to find it

In rainforests, often near rivers.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

The fat from its seeds, kombo butter, is not edible.

Did you know?

Its light wood, ilomba, is used for plywood and dugout canoes.