Citrus aurantiifolia - lime (Fitocella)

Genus of about 12 species of evergreen trees and shrubs, native to the Far East. Citrus aurantiifolia is an evergreen tree of limited size, up to 3-5 m tall, with oval-elliptical, dark green aromatic leaves, with winged petiole. The small flowers, gathered in 3-10 bundles in the axils of the leaves, appear irregularly at various times of the year. The fruits are similar to lemons, small in size and with smooth, thin skin and an unmistakable and intense scent. The pulp is very fragrant and acidic and is used for the preparation of numerous dishes and cocktails. The fruits of this species are preferably harvested when they still have green skin as at this stage they express their scent to the fullest.

Pedoclimatic needs

Lime, like most citrus fruits, is not very rustic and cannot tolerate temperatures below +3°/+5°. This species prefers loose and fertile soil, possibly with a good content of organic substance and shuns excessively calcareous soil. Citrus fruits do not tolerate drought and must be watered and fertilized regularly during the dry season.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Citrus aurantiifolia

Family: Rutaceae