Key lime
Citrus aurantiifolia
Key lime
About this plant
Citrus aurantiifolia, known as Key lime, is a small evergreen tree that produces small, round, greenish-yellow fruits with a distinctive tart flavor. It is widely used in cooking and beverages. The tree has glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers. It is valued for its fruit and ornamental appeal in gardens and patios.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Citrus
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Higher classification
- Sapindales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Originally native to Southeast Asia, now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of the United States.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse, Indoor
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, Southwest-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed the tree with a balanced citrus fertilizer every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows down.
Key lime trees are moderately easy to care for but need plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. They dislike cold temperatures and overwatering, which can cause root problems. Regular watering and occasional feeding help keep the tree healthy and productive.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings, Grafting
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Glossy green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and small round greenish-yellow fruits.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally safe but avoid ingestion of large amounts of leaves or unripe fruit. Sap may irritate skin in sensitive individuals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Low
Citrus aurantiifolia (commonly known as Key lime) can cause allergic reactions in some people, especially those sensitive to citrus fruits. The main triggers are the pollen and the sap. Symptoms may include skin irritation or respiratory discomfort. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot, while insufficient sunlight may cause poor growth and fewer fruits. Pests like aphids or scale insects can sometimes appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Primarily grown for its tart fruit used in cooking, beverages, and flavoring. Also serves as an ornamental tree in gardens and patios.
Notes
Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Repot young trees every 2-3 years if grown in containers. Protect from frost and cold drafts.