The name is derived from the Latin word – clavus, which means nail since the shape of a dried clove resembles that of a nail. India has a big production of cloves coming in from Kerala and other southern states. A clove is the dry, unopened flower bud of the tropical myrtle tree family and is used to flavour a wide variety of sweet and savoury dishes. Cloves can be used whole or ground to impart a strong, sweet, spicy flavour, so should be used in moderation to avoid over seasoning.