Citrus Kaffir Lime

Citrus hystrix, also known as Kaffir Lime, is a tropical citrus tree prized for its aromatic leaves, distinctive fruit, and culinary uses. This variety is highly valued for its ornamental beauty and culinary versatility, making it a popular choice for gardens, patios, and culinary enthusiasts.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 meters.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 2 to 3 meters.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: Kaffir Lime prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clayey soils, but it thrives in soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The plant features glossy, dark green, double-lobed leaves that are highly aromatic and commonly used in Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine. The foliage adds a tropical touch to the landscape and releases a refreshing citrus scent when crushed.
• Growth Habit: Kaffir Lime has an upright, spreading growth habit, with dense foliage that forms a rounded canopy. It can be grown as a small tree or pruned to maintain a more compact size, making it suitable for containers or smaller garden spaces.

Flower and Fruit Description

• Flowers: Inconspicuous white flowers may appear on mature plants, but they are typically not ornamental or showy.
• Fruit: Kaffir Lime produces small, bumpy, dark green fruit with a distinctively knobby appearance. The fruit is highly aromatic and prized for its fragrant zest and juice, which are essential ingredients in many Thai and Southeast Asian dishes.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Kaffir Lime prefers regular watering, particularly during periods of dry weather or when grown in containers. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid waterlogging the soil, as this can lead to root rot.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions but can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Temperature: Kaffir Lime is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures and is best suited to tropical or subtropical climates. It may require protection from frost or cold winds in cooler regions.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and maintain the plant's desired shape. Kaffir Lime generally requires minimal pruning, but occasional grooming can help improve its appearance and promote airflow.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for citrus trees in spring and late summer to promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Kaffir Lime is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may be susceptible to citrus pests such as aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miner. Monitor regularly for signs of infestation and treat promptly if detected.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a culinary plant in herb gardens, patios, or as a specimen tree in tropical or subtropical gardens. Kaffir Lime's aromatic leaves and fruit make it a valuable addition to any garden, providing both ornamental beauty and culinary utility.

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