The Kaffir Lime Tree
Forget about the fruit, I’m growing Kaffir for those double leaves. Kaffir limes have astringent juice in them. However, you can use the zest the rind for cooking purposes. The leaves are one of the main ingredients in Thai cuisine. This lime tree is one of my favorites and its heralded by many enthusiasts in the world of citrus for its uniqueness.
Basic Information
| Common Name | Kaffir Lime |
| Botanical Name | Citrus hystrix |
| Location of Origin | Southeast Asia and southern China |
| USDA Zones | 9-11 |
| Can be grown in containers? | Yes |
Fruit Characteristics
| Fruit Size | Medium-small |
| Fruit Shape | Round |
| Fruit Flavor | Unpleasant juice flavor, astringent |
| Rind Thickness | Fairly Thick |
| Rind Texture | Smooth |
| Rind Color | Green |
| Flesh Color | Greenish |
| Easy to Peel? | Average |
| Seeds | Yes |
Tree Details
| Has Thorns? | Yes |
| Foliage Color | Green |
| Foliage Size | Large, Double leaves |
| Flower Color | White |
| Flower Size | Tiny |
| Mature Tree Height in Ground | 8′ – 12′ |
| Fruit Bearing Age | 3 – 4 years old |
| Alternate Bearing? | No |
| Heat to Sweeten Fruit? | No |
Growing Conditions
| Temperature | Hardy to 32 ºF |
| Self-fertile? | Yes |
| Sunlight Required | Full Sun |
| Bloom Season in Minnesota | Year Round |
| Harvest Season in Minnesota | Year Round |
| Average Spring/Summer Watering | Once every 1-2 weeks, more often when hot |
| Average Fall/Winter Watering | Once every 3 weeks |
Guides for Growing in Containers
Images
