West indian bay tree

Description

Pimenta racemosa�is a species of plant in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) that is native to the�Caribbean�region. Common names include�West Indian bay tree,�bay rum tree,�and�ciliment. It is used in cooking and an essential oil is distilled to produce a fragrant�colognecalled�bay rum; although bay rum is essentially�rum, the concentrated essential oil is toxic and renders the product undrinkable.The tree is 4�12�m tall and the white flowers, about 10�mm wide, become black, oval fruits measuring 7�12�mm.�The plants are now grown widely in other tropical areas, including�Oceania. The ideal conditions for�P. racemosa�are regular irrigation and bright sunshine.