Citrus hystrix
makrut lime
An evergreen shrub to 4m tall, with distinctive, glossy, dark green leaves in two parts. Fragrant white flowers to 2cm across are produced throughout the year; these are followed by bumpy-skinned limes. Both the leaves and fruit are widely used in South East Asian cuisine. Thai limes are best grown in a cool or temperate greenhouse or conservatory and moved outside during the summer months
Synonyms
Citrus latipes Hook. f. & Thomson ex Hook. f.Citrus papeda
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | Green | |
| Autumn | White | Green | Green | |
| Winter | White | Green | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical 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
- SE Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass, grow in loam-based potting compost (JI No. 2) in full light, with shade from hot sun. In growth, water freely, mist daily and apply a balanced liquid every 2-3 weeks; water sparingly in winter. See citrus cultivation for further information
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or layer in early spring. Sow seed at 16°C in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Bedding
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Edible fruit
Pruning
See pruning group 1
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.