Myrcia

Myrcia, a genus of trees of the natural order Myrtaceæ, to which belongs the Wild Clove or Wild Cinnamon of the West Indies (M. acriis), a handsome tree of 20 or 30 feet high. Its timber is very hard, red, and heavy, capable of receiving a fine polish, and much used for cogs of wheels. Its leaves have an aromatic cinnamon-like smell, and an agreeable astringency, and are used in sauces. Its berries are round, and as large as peas, have an aromatic smell and taste, and are used for culinary purposes.—The leaves, berries, and flower-buds of M. pimentoides have a hot taste and fragrant smell, and are also used for culinary purposes.