Lime Citrus x latifolia

Lime, also known as tahiti lime or persian lime, is a vigorous small hybrid tree in the Rutaceae family, reaching a height and spread of about 20 feet in tropical/sub-tropical regions with a rounded, dense canopy hanging to the ground.  The origin of the fruit is somewhat obscure although citrus research indicates it may have been southeast Asia, specifically east and northeastern India, north Myanmar, and southwest China. The tahiti lime was likely introduced to California from Tahiti, hence it's common name.  It is best known for its juicy and aromatic seedless fruits which are medium to dark green at maturity, becoming yellow before dropping from the tree.  It is most commonly found in grocery stores alongside lemons and oranges.  While the fruits are most often used green for their acidity, they ripen to a sweeter, more fragrant yellow fruit.  In its hardiness zones, it will bloom all year and keep its leaves all year.  Lime is a triploid.

Lime should be planted in the warmest possible location in your landscape, in full sun, at least 20 feet away from other trees and buildings.  It does not tolerate shade.  Lime prefers a pH level of 6.0 or higher in a sandy, loamy soil that is kept moist but drains well.  The tree does not produce as well in heavy clay soil or soils that drain poorly.  Lime trees should be fertilized 3 or 4 times a year and watered regularly especially during times of drought to promote growth and regular fruiting.  Pruning is only required to shape it, remove dead wood and limit plant size.  Propagation methods include grafting or layering. 

Lime juice has no cholesterol and is a source of Vitamin A.  It is also high in Vitamin C and antioxidants which are good for the body.  Even though limes have virtually no seeds and no viable pollen, if the trees are planted in and among other fruit trees, the limes may contain a few seeds.

Plant outside for year-round enjoyment in the proper hardiness zone or put in a planter for movement inside when the weather turns cold. 

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  This plant may cause contact dermatitis in some people.  Lime is moderately susceptible to citrus canker and citrus greening, scale, aphids, leaf miners and mites. Red alga can be a major problem.  Overwatering may cause fungal infections or root rot and the tree to decline in fruit bearing.  Lime trees in the home landscape are susceptible to trunk injury caused by lawn mowers and weed whackers.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common citrus insect and related pests.