Mexican Key Lime Citrus Tree
A unique lime species that is perhaps most famous for its use in key lime pies, but is very versatile and can be used in cocktails, juices and all sorts of different dishes. The fruits are less juicy than some limes but are quite flavorful, aromatic and slightly bitter, adding a complex flavor to whatever they are used in.
Click here to view our Citrus Growing Guide.
Latin Name: Citrus aurantifolia
Site and Soil: In spring, summer and fall, keep your potted Citrus in a location with 1/2 day to full sun. In the winter, place your plant in a well-lit room. Potting soil should be coarse, acidic, and well-drained.
Rootstock Description: Flying Dragon is a hardy and very dwarfing rootstock for Citrus that induces very early flowering and fruit procuction. Trees grown on Flying Dragon will rarely exceed 5 ft. in height and will often produce fruit the year they are planted.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile. You can help it set fruit by taking a small brush and moving pollen from flower to flower.
Hardiness: Hardy to about 30° F. We recommend bringing into a well-lit and protected location in early fall before frost.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 3-5 ft.
Taste: Aromatic, tart
Fruit Skin: Greenish-yellow
Fruit Flesh: Greenish-yellow
Bloom Time: Year-round.
Ripening Time: Winter
Yield: 40+ fruit
Care: Fertilize with citrus mix 3-4 times per year with typical applications in late winter (Jan-Feb), late spring (May-June) and early fall (Sept-Oct).
Pests & Diseases: While outside, Citrus plants will likely not be bothered by insect pests. Be on the lookout for slugs. Indoors, Citrus can have mites and/or aphids. Watch carefully for any problems and treat with an insecticidal soap or wash them off. We have not seen any disease problems on our Citrus plants.
USDA Zone: 10