Key lime, Mexican lime, West Indian lime
citrus aurantiifolia
Also known as: ["Key lime","Mexican lime","West Indian lime"," bartender's lime"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its small, green fruits and aromatic leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Rutaceae |
| Genus: | Citrus |
| Botanical Name: | Citrus aurantiifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot with maximum sunlight exposure
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with added organic matter).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade during peak hours.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from scorching by providing shade during extreme heat. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid north-facing windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH annually.
Temperature
Ideal range: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers warmth year-round.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced citrus fertilizer
Apply fertilizer evenly around the root zone; water before and after fertilizing; avoid contact with stems.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use softwood cuttings for best results; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage airflow to reduce pest and disease risk.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before flowering; remove crossing branches; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if pot-bound; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity, temperature, and growth stage.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use pine bark for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or blossom drop.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, reduce flowering, and can cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move indoors during frost; protect with frost cloth; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced fruit set. High humidity combined with heat may encourage pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; mist foliage during extreme heat; ensure good ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced citrus fertilizer (6-6-6 or similar) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall). Reduce or stop in winter. Dilute to half-strength for container plants.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the essential oils in Citrus aurantiifolia, particularly in the seeds and peel, which can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The peel may also cause skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of the seeds or peel of Citrus aurantiifolia. The essential oils in the peel can also cause skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and peel of Citrus aurantiifolia contain essential oils and compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large amounts. The peel may also cause skin irritation upon contact with sunlight due to phototoxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Key lime tree suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in containers, provided it receives adequate sunlight and proper care.
Q: What are the primary uses of Key lime?
A: Key lime is primarily used for culinary purposes, such as in beverages, desserts, and marinades, and also has some medicinal applications.
Q: How often should Key lime trees be watered?
A: Key lime trees should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rutaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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