Citrus - Sublime Citrus aurantifolia

Citrus aurantifolia, commonly known as Key Lime or Mexican Lime, is a small, thorny evergreen tree prized for its aromatic foliage, fragrant flowers, and acidic fruit. The 'Sublime' variety of Key Lime is valued for its juicy, flavorful fruit and adaptability to various growing conditions.

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: Key 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, as long as they provide good drainage.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The plant features glossy, dark green leaves that are oval to lance-shaped and emit a citrus fragrance when crushed. The foliage adds ornamental value to the landscape year-round.
• Growth Habit: Key Lime has an upright, spreading growth habit with dense, compact foliage. It can be pruned to maintain a compact size, making it suitable for container planting or smaller garden spaces.

Flower and Fruit Description

• Flowers: Key Lime produces small, white, fragrant flowers with five petals, typically in spring or early summer. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
• Fruit: The fruit of Key Lime is small, round, and green when ripe, with thin, smooth skin and juicy, acidic flesh. Key Limes are prized for their intense flavor and aromatic zest, making them ideal for use in beverages, desserts, and culinary dishes.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Key Lime requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, particularly during periods of dry weather or when grown in containers. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, sunny conditions and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
• Temperature: Key Lime is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures and is best suited to subtropical or Mediterranean climates. Protect from frost or cold winds, especially during the winter months.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve airflow. Key Lime generally requires minimal pruning, but occasional grooming can help maintain its ornamental appeal and promote fruit production.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for citrus trees in spring and late summer to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruit development.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Key Lime is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may be susceptible to citrus pests such as aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miner, as well as fungal diseases such as citrus canker and root rot. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if issues arise.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a specimen tree, accent plant, or container plant in gardens, patios, and landscapes. Key Lime adds both visual and culinary interest, providing fragrant flowers, decorative foliage, and flavorful fruit.

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