- Mace is a spice derived from the fruit of the evergreen tree, Myristica fragrans that grows to a height of 9-12 meters. It is the reddish dried reticulated 'aril' of the fruit or the seed coat (nutmeg). It is well-known for its mild flavor and orange hue. When the fruit matures, it bursts open along the groove, revealing the brilliant beautiful mace that covers the hard black, glossy shell of the nutmeg seed.