Two distinct spices, nutmeg and mace, come from the fruit of the Myristica fragrans tree, which belongs to the Myristicaceae family. The only tree in the world that produces two distinct spices is Myristica fragrans. The nutmeg-shaped hard pit in the fruit is called mace, and the lacy crimson membrane that encircles it is known as the nutmeg. A perennial evergreen spice tree with a nutmeg flavour, nutmeg is indigenous to East Indonesia's Moluccas. Nutmeg has been a highly regarded spice for its many culinary and other applications since ancient times. Whole nutmeg, nutmeg essential oil, crushed nutmeg, and mace are all exported from Sri Lanka to foreign markets.