Clove Plant - Lawang, Laung Live Plant

Cloves are the aromatic flower buds of a tree in the family Myrtaceae, Syzygium aromaticum.

The clove tree is an evergreen that grows up to 8 to 12 m tall, with large leaves and crimson flowers grouped in terminal clusters The flower buds initially have a pale hue, gradually turn green, and then transition to a bright red when ready for harvest.

The clove tree trunk has smooth bark with greyish-yellow aromatic foliage. It is a slow-growing but long-lived tree and can exceed 100 years of age easily.

Planting And Care

The seeds can be directly planted, or soaked in water overnight to remove the outer lining. Northern gardeners should mulch heavily with straw for overwintering. Mulch should be removed in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. (Young shoots cannot survive in temps below 20 degrees F on their own. Keep them under cover)

Cloves Special Feature

Although this shrub can appear somewhat unkempt as it ages, the aromatic flowers, edible fruits and summer foliage provide good ornamental value and tasty fruit. The group is in shrub borders, open woodland areas or near patios. Informal hedge or screen.

Medicinal Use:

• The active principles in the clove are known to have antioxidant, antiseptic, local anaesthetic, anti-inflammatory, rubefacient (warming and soothing), carminative and anti-flatulent properties
• The spice contains health-benefiting essential oils such as eugenol

Culinary Use:

• Used as spice