The Kaffir* lime tree (Citrus hystrix), also known as makrut lime, is commonly grown for use in Asian cuisine. While this dwarf citrus tree, reaching up to 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall, can be grown outdoors (year-round in USDA zones 9-10), it is best suited for indoors. The Kaffir lime tree thrives in potted environments and would benefit from placement out on the patio or deck, however, its container needs to provide adequate drainage.
Kaffir Lime Leaves
The glossy, dark green leaves of the Kaffir lime tree are quite distinctive. Kaffir lime leaves look like two leaves joined together, as one appears to grow from the tip of the other. Kaffir lime leaves are most often used as an essential ingredient for flavoring many Asian dishes such as soups, curries, and fish. They can be used fresh off the tree or from dried leaves. Kaffir lime leaves can also be frozen to retain their freshness. Picking the leaves every few weeks may help encourage growth. Crushing Kaffir lime leaves will release their fragrant oils, which emit an intense citrus aroma.
About Kaffir Limes
Kaffir limes are about the size of Western limes. They are dark green with a bumpy surface. In order for the Kaffir lime tree to produce any limes, be sure to provide plenty of light for flowering. Since they produce very little juice, the juice and flesh of Kaffir limes is rarely used, but the sour-tasting rind can be finely grated and used for flavoring dishes. Fresh Kaffir limes can be frozen using freezer bags and used as needed. Kaffir limes have many household uses as well, including cleaning and hair conditioning. Kaffir lime trees are generally not bothered by many pest problems but may become susceptible to mites or scale if left near infected plants. Although it is possible to grow Kaffir lime trees from seed, this method is often difficult to achieve. Likewise, grafted trees tend to bloom and bear fruit earlier than seedlings.
Kaffir Lime Tree Care
Despite the fact that Kaffir lime trees are tolerant of less than ideal conditions, there are specific needs that should be met for optimal growth. Kaffir limes prefer full sun in moist, well-drained soil. If grown indoors, keep near a sunny window. The Kaffir lime tree appreciates water and somewhat humid conditions during the growing season. Keep in mind, however, that this tree is prone to root rot if kept too wet, so allow the soil to dry out some between waterings. Regular misting helps with humidity levels. Kaffir lime trees are cold sensitive and need to be protected from frost. Therefore, these plants should be brought indoors during winter if they are grown outside. They enjoy indoor temperatures around 60 degrees F. (16 C.) or above, especially during winter months. Prune the lime tree while young to encourage branching and a more bushy plant. *NOTE: The word "kafir" was originally used to refer to non-Muslims, but was later adopted by white colonialists to describe people of color or slaves. It is because of this, "Kaffir" is deemed in some regions as a derogatory and insulting term. It is important to note, however, that its reference in this article is NOT intended to offend anyone but is simply referencing the Kaffir lime tree for which it is commonly known in North America.
-
Monstera Esqueleto Care GuideMonstera esqueleto is a high-drama houseplant with natural holes in its leaves. It loves to climb and enhance your living space with its big evergreen presence.
-
6 Last-Minute Holiday Decorations You Can Make Using Garden GreeneryCreate a beautifully festive interior with these foraged foliage decor ideas that will add holiday magic with just a few minutes' work.
-
Lime Tree Leaf Curl: What Causes Curling Leaves On Lime TreesYour lime leaves are curling and you have no idea where to start treating them. Have no fear, there are many innocent causes of leaf curl on lime trees. Learn what to look for and how to handle common lime tree leaf curl problems in this article.
-
Fertilizing Lime Trees – Learn How To Fertilize A Lime TreeGot a lime tree? Wondering how to fertilize your lime tree? Lime trees, like all citrus, are heavy feeders and, therefore, need supplemental fertilizer. But the question is, when do you fertilize lime trees? Click here and find out in this article.
-
Sweet Lime Varieties – Sweet Lime Tree Growing And CareThere's a new citrus on the block! Okay, it isn't new, but fairly obscure in the United States. We're talking sweet limes. Yes, a lime that is less tart and more on the sweet side. Intrigued? This article contains additional information.
-
Are Yellow Limes Bad: What To Do With Yellow LimesWhen we purchase limes, they are generally fairly firm but with a slight give and uniformly green in color. What happens if you encounter limes with yellow skin though? Are yellow limes bad? Click here to learn more.
-
Hand Pollinating Lime Trees: How To Hand Pollinate A Lime TreeIs your lime tree less than stellar in the pollination department? If your yield is meager, perhaps you have wondered if you can hand pollinate limes? This article will help you with hand pollination of lime trees.
-
Potted Lime Trees: Caring For Container Grown Lime TreesGrowing lime trees in pots have the advantage of ease of movement and protection from cold. The information in this article will help with growing a potted lime tree. Click here to learn more.
-
Watering Limes: How Much Water Do Lime Trees Need In ContainersPlanting limes in pots will enable you to move them around more easily and grow them in cooler climates - but watering is crucial. How much water will these lime trees need? Read this article to find out.
-
Mexican Key Lime Tree Information: Tips For Growing Key LimesAlmost anyone can grow Mexican key lime trees if you have the right information. Take a look at the growth and care of key lime trees in the following article and see if this lime tree variety is right for you.
