
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.
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.