Citrus aurantifolia, commonly known as Key Lime or Mexican Lime, is a small, thorny evergreen tree prized for its aromatic foliage, fragrant flowers, and acidic fruit. The plant features glossy, dark green leaves that are oval to lance-shaped and emit a citrus fragrance when crushed. Key Lime produces small, white, fragrant flowers with five petals, typically in spring or early summer. The Key Lime is usually picked while it is still green, but it becomes yellow when ripe. The fruit of Key Lime is small and round, with thin, smooth skin and juicy, acidic flesh. Key Limes are prized for their intense flavor and aromatic zest, making them ideal for use in beverages, desserts, and culinary dishes. It can be pruned to maintain a compact size, making it suitable for container planting or smaller garden spaces.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clayey soils, as long as they provide good drainage.
Conditions: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. Key Lime is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures and is best suited to subtropical or Mediterranean climates. Protect from frost or cold winds, especially during the winter months.
Size: Height 2-4m x width 2-3m
Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clayey soils, as long as they provide good drainage.
Conditions: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. Key Lime is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures and is best suited to subtropical or Mediterranean climates. Protect from frost or cold winds, especially during the winter months.
Size: Height 2-4m x width 2-3m