🍃 Citrus hystrix, better known as the Kaffir Lime, is a wonderfully exotic citrus tree prized for both its striking appearance and its culinary uses. Native to Southeast Asia, this plant has found its way into kitchens, patios, and conservatories around the world — and for good reason.
🌿 Foliage & Character
Its distinctive double-lobed leaves, which look almost like two leaves joined together, are intensely aromatic and widely used in Thai, Indonesian, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. The foliage remains glossy and evergreen year-round, offering not only culinary value but also visual appeal. The tree has a compact yet upright growth habit, giving it an elegant structure whether grown in a container or the garden.
🌼 Flowering & Fruit
During spring and summer, Citrus hystrix produces small, white, starry flowers with a sweet citrus scent. If conditions are right, these may be followed by its signature bumpy-skinned green limes — not typically eaten fresh, but their zest and rind are highly prized for flavoring dishes and infusions.
📏 Height
This plant can reach 1.5 to 2 meters in height when mature, but it responds well to pruning and can be maintained at a more manageable size in a container. Upon delivery, it already presents as a well-developed specimen — a beautiful and practical addition to any sunny spot.
💧 Care & Watering
Kaffir Lime thrives in warm, sunny conditions and enjoys a well-draining soil mix. Water moderately, allowing the top layer of soil to dry between waterings. In winter, water sparingly and protect the plant from frost if kept outdoors. It also appreciates regular misting and benefits from citrus-specific feed during the growing season to support leaf and fruit production.
🌵 Thorns?
Yes — like many citrus trees, Citrus hystrix bears small, sharp thorns along its branches, so take care when pruning or harvesting leaves.
👃 Fragrance
Highly fragrant! Both the leaves and blossoms emit a rich, citrusy aroma that instantly evokes tropical warmth. Even a light brush against the foliage releases its distinct and refreshing scent.
⚠️ Note on Toxicity
The leaves and fruit are commonly used in cooking and are considered non-toxic to humans. However, the plant should be kept out of reach of pets, as citrus leaves and oils can be irritating if ingested in quantity.
🪴 Format: Upon delivery, the plant has a height of approximately 70–80 cm (measured including the pot). It is supplied in a nursery pot with a diameter of 22 cm.
