Finger Lime (Citrus australasica) is a slow-growing evergreen citrus native to Australia, prized for its elongated, caviar-like fruit with a tangy flavor. Perfect for urban gardens, edible landscapes, and container planting, finger lime plants offer ornamental foliage and unique edible fruit.
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, prefers well-draining, fertile soil, and is Non-GMO, making it ideal for gardeners who want exotic citrus fruit in limited spaces.
Features
- Produces tangy, caviar-like finger lime fruit
- Compact size suitable for urban gardens and container planting
- Evergreen plant with ornamental foliage
- Non-GMO seeds
- Low-maintenance citrus plant
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Citrus australasica
- Common Name: Finger Lime
- Plant Type: Evergreen citrus tree
- Growth Habit: Compact, upright shrub/tree
- Mature Height: 6–10 ft (can remain smaller in containers)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11 (container planting possible in cooler zones)
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
- Watering Needs: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Germination Time: 2–4 weeks
- Days to Fruit: 2–3 years from seed under optimal conditions
- Seed Type: Non-GMO
- Container Friendly: Yes
- Climate Preference: Warm, frost-free subtropical/tropical regions
- Suggested Growing Sites: Urban gardens, patios, edible landscapes, containers
- Winter Care: Protect seedlings from frost; mulch roots in colder climates
Planting Guide
- Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep in well-draining, fertile seed-starting mix.
- Keep soil moist and maintain temperatures of 70–85°F (21–29°C) until germination.
- Transplant seedlings into garden beds or containers once 4–6 inches tall and frost risk has passed.
- Provide full sun to partial shade and regular watering; mulch around the base during winter.