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Conservatory GreenhouseFruit EdibleShrubs

Citrus × aurantiifolia (F)

lime

A spiny evergreen shrub or small tree with aromatic, glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers in late spring or summer, followed by rounded green or greenish-yellow fruit (limes) 4-6cm across

Other common names
Mexican lime
Adam's apple
see morebartender's lime
key lime
West Indian lime
Synonyms
Citrus × aurantiifolia key lime
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green Green
Winter Green Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Rutaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit harmful to skin with sunlight/skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Citrus are typically evergreen shrubs or trees, frequently spiny, with simple, leathery, aromatic leaves, usually with winged stalks, and often fragrant white or pink-tinged flowers, followed by large, juicy fruits

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Tropical Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow as a conservatory or greenhouse plant, in a container of peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit, in full light, with shade from hot sun. In growth during spring and summer, water freely, and mist daily. Apply fertilisers formulated for citrus, throughout the year, following the manufacturer’s instructions; water sparingly in winter. See citrus cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by seed at 16°C in spring; seedlings do not come true to type. Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to citrus red spider mite and glasshouse red spider mite, soft scale and fluted scale, aphids, caterpillars and mealybugs under glass

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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