Citrus hystrix Lime 'Thai' (Kaffir Lime)

Common Name:
Thai Lime (Kaffir Lime)

Description:
Citrus hystrix, commonly referred to as Thai Lime or Kaffir Lime, is a small, evergreen citrus tree prized for both its intensely aromatic leaves and its knobbly, bumpy-skinned fruit. A staple in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly Thai and Indonesian dishes, the leaves are widely used fresh or dried in curries, soups, and stir-fries. The fruit, though small and highly acidic, is also valued for its zest and juice. Thai Lime grows best in a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil and benefits from regular feeding to promote lush growth and fruit production. In Melbourne, it performs well in a warm spot protected from frost and cold winds—perfect for pots or raised garden beds where microclimates can be controlled. With its glossy green leaves, distinctive double-lobed leaf shape, and fragrant white flowers in spring and summer, Citrus hystrix makes a beautiful and productive addition to edible gardens and courtyard spaces.

Form:
*Tree - Small
*Shrub - Small
*Suitable for Espalier

Mature Size:
*Height: 1.5 to 3 metres
*Width: 1.5 to 2.5 metres

Aspect:
*Full Sun
*Part Shade

Flowering:
*Flowers in Spring
*Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
*White

Key Attributes:
*Suitable for Pots
*Edible Fruit
*Edible Leaves
*Scented flowers
*Perennial
*Suitable for Espalier
*Bird Attracting (when fruiting)
*Bee Attracting

Toxicity:
Not considered toxic to humans or animals. Fruit and leaves are edible and widely used in culinary applications.

Companion Plants:
*Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
*Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
*Chilli (Capsicum spp.)
*Vietnamese Mint (Persicaria odorata)
*Basil (Ocimum basilicum)