Bring a taste of the tropics to your home with the Key Lime Tree, a cherished citrus variety known for its zesty flavor, aromatic flowers, and abundant fruiting. A native of Southeast Asia, Citrus aurantifolia thrives in warm, sunny climates, making it ideal for patios, greenhouses, and sunny indoor spaces.
This compact evergreen tree or shrub produces small, thin-skinned green limes that turn yellow when ripe — perfect for Key lime pies, cocktails, marinades, and refreshing drinks. Beyond its culinary value, the Key Lime’s fragrant white blossoms and glossy leaves add beauty and a tropical feel to any space.
Features
- 🍋 Tart & Flavorful Fruit: Ideal for pies, drinks, and culinary use.
- 🌸 Fragrant White Blossoms: Adds beauty and aroma to your garden.
- ☀️ Perfect for Containers: Great for patios, greenhouses, or indoor growth.
- 🌿 Evergreen Tree: Year-round lush foliage and decorative appeal.
- 🌴 Tropical Favorite: Easy to grow in warm, sunny locations.
Specifications
- Common Name: Key Lime Tree
- Scientific Name: Citrus aurantifolia
- Plant Type: Evergreen fruit tree/shrub
- USDA Zones: 9–11 (container-friendly in cooler zones)
- Mature Height: 6–12 ft (1.8–3.6 m)
- Spread: 6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m)
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Light Requirement: Full sun (6–8 hrs/day)
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy loam
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
- Watering: Moderate; keep soil moist but not soggy
- Temperature Range: 65°F–90°F (18°C–32°C)
- Bloom Time: Spring to early summer
- Flower Color: White, fragrant
- Fruit Size: 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm)
- Germination Time: 20–40 days
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
- Uses: Culinary, ornamental, potted fruit tree
Planting Guide
- Pre-Soak Seeds: Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before planting.
- Sow: Plant seeds ¼ inch deep in moist, well-draining soil.
- Light: Provide full sun or bright indoor light.
- Temperature: Maintain 75–85°F (24–29°C) for best germination.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors or to larger pots once they reach 4–6 inches tall.
- Fertilization: Use citrus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning: Lightly prune to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.
Care Tips
- Grow indoors near a sunny window in cooler climates.
- Protect from frost — move pots indoors during winter.
- Water consistently during flowering and fruiting stages.
- Harvest limes when they turn slightly yellow for best flavor.
