Description
(Citrus aurantifolia)
The West Indian Lime, also known as the Key Lime, is like a smaller, more round version of the Tahitian Lime, but it has a stronger flavour and does contain some seeds. It’s a smaller growing tree, reaching about 3m tall in its lifetime, though it does have an attractive, bushy growth habit.
Like most citrus, it does respond well to pruning.
The fruit turns from green to a light yellow when fully ripe, though it can definitely be picked when green as well. Though it’s small, the Key Lime is incredibly juicy. At times, up to 40% of its volume is just juice and, paired with its nice strong flavour, it tends to be favoured for cooking, drink making, and baking. (Yes, Key Lime Pie is traditionally made with these little beauties!) Be sure to have a good juicer or strainer on hand as the West Indian Lime can have quite a few seeds.
The fruit can start to ripen in autumn, from around April, depending on the weather. It can also fruit intermittently through spring and even summer at times.
It’s not cold tolerant, so in frost prone areas, West Indian Lime trees must be protected in winter for at least its first three years.
For our citrus care recommendations, please check our Help & Advice page!
