Warm and spicy. Clove is a spice made from the dried flower of a type of myrtle tree that is native to the Maluku Islands, also known as Spice Islands of Indonesia. Most people are familiar with ground cloves as a baking spice, but whole cloves also have culinary value. A ham studded with cloves and baked is a popular winter dish.
Simple holiday ornaments can be made from oranges peppered with cloves, or you can welcome guests into your home with the enticing aroma of simmering potpourri that consists of cinnamon sticks, orange peel and whole cloves. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
