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Lime Tree

Lime Tree

Citrus aurantiifolia

Basic Information

🌿 Family: Rutaceae

🗺️ Zone: 9-11

Other Names:

  • Key Lime
  • Mexican Lime

🌡️ Ideal Temperature : 70°F°F – 85°F°F

🔥 Heat Tolerance: Up to 100°F°F

❄️ Cold Tolerance: Down to 30°F°F

🌱 Type: Perennial

Layers

  • Canopy

Functions

  • Edible
  • Medicinal
  • Pollinator
  • Wildlife Attractor
  • Border Plant

Pests

No pests associated with this plant.

Companions

Plants to Avoid

  • Walnut

Description

The Lime Tree is a small, evergreen tree reaching heights of 4.5 to 6 meters (15 to 20 feet). It has glossy, dark green leaves and bears fragrant white flowers, leading to small, green to yellowish-green fruit known for their tart flavor. Limes are rich in vitamin C and are utilized in various culinary and medicinal applications. The tree thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soils and requires full sun exposure.

🌞💧 Sun and Water Requirements:
Lime Trees require full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They prefer consistent moisture but are sensitive to waterlogged conditions. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to maintain soil moisture without oversaturation.

✂️🫘 Methods to Propagate:
Propagation is commonly achieved through grafting onto compatible rootstocks to ensure desired fruit characteristics and disease resistance. Seed propagation is possible but may not produce true-to-type plants and can result in variable fruit quality.

🧑‍🌾👩‍🌾 When to Harvest:
Limes can be harvested when they have developed full coloration and are slightly soft to the touch. Depending on the variety and climate, this can occur multiple times a year, with some trees bearing fruit year-round.

Purpose

- Edible: Limes are widely used in culinary applications, including beverages, desserts, and as a flavor enhancer in various dishes.
- Medicinal: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, limes support immune health and have been used traditionally to aid digestion and treat colds.
- Pollinator: The fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators, enhancing the pollination of nearby plants.
- Wildlife Attractor: The tree provides habitat and food for various bird species and beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.
- Border Plant: With its dense foliage and manageable size, lime trees can serve as effective hedges or border plants in landscape design.