Citrus hystrix
TAXONOMY
FamilyRutaceae
GenusCitrus
Zone10
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Citrus hystrix, commonly known as Kaffir lime or Makrut lime, is a tropical shrub or small tree native to Southeast Asia. It is well-known for its aromatic leaves and bumpy, green fruit. The plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is often used in culinary applications, particularly in Thai and Indonesian cuisine.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Fortunella Sagittifolia
Kaffir Lime
Makrut Lime
Makrut-Lime
Mauritius Papeda
Papeda Rumphii
Citrus ×aurantium var. saponacea
Citrus auraria
Citrus balincolong
Citrus ×bergamia var. unguentaria
Citrus ×bergamia var. ventricosa
Citrus boholensis
Citrus celebica
Citrus celebica var. southwickii
Citrus combara
Citrus combara var. boholensis
Citrus combara var. macroptera
Citrus combara var. micrantha
Citrus combara var. southwickii
Citrus echinata
Citrus hyalopulpa
Citrus hystrix var. annamensis
Citrus hystrix var. balincolong
Citrus hystrix var. boholensis
Citrus hystrix var. micrantha
Citrus hystrix var. microcarpa
Citrus hystrix var. southwickii
Citrus hystrix var. torosa
Citrus kerrii
Citrus latipes
Citrus macroptera
Citrus macroptera var. annamensis
Citrus macroptera var. boholensis
Citrus macroptera var. combara
Citrus macroptera var. kerrii
Citrus macroptera var. micrantha
Citrus macroptera var. southwickii
Citrus micrantha
Citrus micrantha var. balincolong
Citrus micrantha var. microcarpa
Citrus papeda
Citrus papuana
Citrus southwickii
Citrus torosa
Citrus tuberoides
Citrus ventricosa
Citrus vitiensis
Citrus westeri
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD2,700
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Citrus hystrix requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and high humidity. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it receives adequate light and humidity.Harvest
Citrus hystrix, commonly known as Kaffir lime, is typically harvested when the fruits are fully mature, which is usually around 6 to 9 months after flowering. The fruits should be firm and have a deep green color. Harvesting is done by hand, using pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit from the tree, ensuring not to damage the branches. The leaves, which are also used in cooking, can be harvested year-round. It is important to handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging the delicate branches and to ensure the continuous production of fruits and leaves.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of loam with some organic matter is ideal. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral for best results.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 3-1-2. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot Citrus hystrix every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Citrus hystrix can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or air layering. The best time to propagate is during the growing season. For cuttings, use semi-hardwood cuttings and root them in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.Toxicity
Citrus hystrix is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the fruit's rind and leaves contain essential oils that can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.Additional
Regularly check for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Use appropriate pest control methods if necessary. Ensure the plant has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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