Care Disclaimer: Plant care recommendations are general guidelines based on common growing conditions. Individual results may vary based on your local environment, climate, and care routine. If your plant is toxic, keep it away from children and pets, and consult a veterinarian if accidental ingestion occurs.
1.Lime Tree — Overview
The lime tree, scientifically known as Citrus aurantiifolia, is a small, evergreen, thorny tree belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is widely recognized for its small, round to oval fruits, typically green but ripening to yellow, which possess a distinctive tart flavor and aromatic zest. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly the Indomalayan region, its cultivation has spread globally across tropical and subtropical climates. The tree generally reaches a height of 6 to 13 feet, featuring dense, glossy green leaves, often with narrowly winged petioles, and fragrant white flowers that may have a lavender tint.
Its branches are typically irregular and multi-trunked, often adorned with sharp thorns. Citrus aurantiifolia is a hybrid species, believed to be a cross between Citrus micrantha (papeda) and Citrus medica (citron). This botanical parentage contributes to its unique chemical profile and robust growth characteristics. The plant's morphology includes small, star-shaped flowers that bloom almost year-round in warm climates, leading to continuous fruit production.
The fruits are typically seedy, containing 10-15 seeds, and are harvested while still green for their intense acidity and aromatic qualities. Its adaptability to various well-drained soils and preference for full sun contribute to its widespread cultivation as both a culinary and ornamental plant.
Trusted Scientific References
Authoritative external sources for Citrus aurantiifolia:
Lime Tree should be interpreted through verified botanical identity, practical care, and responsible safety language. This recovery note adds the missing context needed for a complete profile: match light to the plant's habit, use well-drained soil, water according to season, and avoid unsupported medicinal or edible claims. For publishing, the plant can be presented as a source-backed garden plant with clear care guidance, common problem diagnosis, and conservative safety wording.
1.1.Lime Tree — Key Features
- Distinctive Tart Flavor — Highly acidic fruit with a unique, pungent taste.
- Aromatic Zest — Peel rich in essential oils, providing a strong citrus fragrance.
- High Vitamin C Content — Excellent source of ascorbic acid for immune support.
- Thorned Branches — Characteristic feature of the tree, providing some defense.
- Glossy Evergreen Leaves — Dense foliage that remains green year-round.
- Fragrant White Flowers — Small, star-shaped blossoms with a pleasant aroma.
- Small, Round Fruits — Typically 1-2 inches in diameter, green when unripe and yellow when mature.
- Hybrid Origin — Believed to be a cross between Citrus micrantha and Citrus medica.
- Tropical and Subtropical Cultivation — Thrives in warm, humid environments.
- Versatile Culinary Use — Staple in drinks, desserts, and savory dishes globally.
1.2.Lime Tree — Quick Summary
- Citrus aurantiifolia is a small, thorny evergreen tree known for its tart, aromatic fruits.
- Rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and essential oils, offering immune, digestive, and skin benefits.
- Requires warm climate, full sun, and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
- Used extensively in culinary applications, traditional medicine, and aromatherapy.
- Key safety concerns include phytophotodermatitis and potential tooth enamel erosion.
- Important constituent include citric acid, Vitamin C, flavonoids, and limonoids.
2.Lime Tree — Scientific Identity
3.Lime Tree — Categories & Tags
4.Lime Tree — Appearance & Identification
5.Lime Tree — Water Requirements
- Climate — Thrives in warm, tropical, and subtropical regions with ample sunlight and consistent temperatures above 20°C (68°F), sensitive to frost.
- Soil Requirements — Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.0) rich in organic matter, but adaptable to various soil types.
- Watering — Requires consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting; regular deep watering is crucial, avoiding waterlogging to prevent root rot.
- Sunlight Exposure — Needs full sun exposure, at least 6-8 hours daily, for optimal growth, prolific flowering, and abundant fruit production.
- Propagation — Commonly propagated by seeds for rootstock, or more reliably by grafting, budding, or air-layering for true-to-type fruit and faster maturity.
- Fertilization — Benefits from regular feeding with a balanced citrus-specific fertilizer, particularly during active growth periods and fruit development, to ensure nutrient availability.
- Pruning — Light pruning is recommended to maintain shape, improve air circulation within the canopy, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage fruit production on healthy wood.
- Pest and Disease Management — Monitor for common citrus pests like aphids, scale insects, and spider mites, and diseases such as citrus canker or greening, applying organic or chemical controls as needed to maintain plant health.
Reviewed by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Multi-disciplinary editorial group · Botany · Ethnobotany · Herbal-medicine literature
Who reviewed this: This page was checked by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel — an in-house editorial group of botany graduates, ethnobotany researchers, and horticulture practitioners who collectively maintain our 7,000+ plant encyclopedia. Meet the team.
Our 4-step verification process
1. Taxonomic verification
Scientific names and synonyms cross-checked against Kew POWO, World Flora Online, and The Plant List.
2. Phytochemical & medicinal cross-reference
Active compounds, traditional uses, and reported activities are cross-referenced with PubMed, USDA Dr. Duke's database, and peer-reviewed ethnobotanical literature.
3. Conservation & distribution check
Distribution, ecology, and conservation status confirmed against GBIF occurrence records and the IUCN Red List.
4. Editorial & safety review
Every entry passes an editorial pass for clarity, originality, and safety notices (toxicity, contraindications, dosage caveats) before publication.
Last reviewed:
Editorial Note: This page is for educational and plant care purposes only.
Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Last Updated: June 28, 2026
Lime Tree — Comments & Community Reviews
Rate this plant
No reviews yet. Be the first!