Lime Trees
Persian Limes, Key Limes, Red Limes, Indian Sweet Limes, Kaffir Limes, how do you plant just one?
Persian Lime
Persian Lime is well suited for USDA Growing Zones 9A and 9B—ideal for St. Augustine and Northeast Florida gardens. Seedless, juicy lime for everyday use; heavy-bearing on compact trees.
- Harvest Season (FL): Main crop June–September; smaller off-season crops
- Tree Size: Small to medium, 8–15 ft
- Uses: Drinks, marinades, desserts, everyday kitchen lime
- Pollination: Self-fertile (typically seedless)
- Chill Hours: None (protect from frost)
Indian Sweet Lime
Indian Sweet Lime is well suited for USDA Growing Zones 9A and 9B—ideal for St. Augustine and Northeast Florida gardens. Low-acid, mild citrus prized for refreshing drinks; best fully ripe.
- Harvest Season (FL): October–February
- Tree Size: Medium, 10–16 ft
- Uses: Fresh juice, lemon-limeades, savory dressings
- Pollination: Self-fertile
- Chill Hours: None
Kaffir Lime
Kaffir Lime is well suited for USDA Growing Zones 9A and 9B—ideal for St. Augustine and Northeast Florida gardens. Fragrant leaves essential in Southeast Asian cooking; bumpy, aromatic fruit.
- Harvest Season (FL): Leaves year-round; fruit mainly fall–winter
- Tree Size: Small, 6–10 ft
- Uses: Leaves for curries and soups, zest and rind for fragrance
- Pollination: Self-fertile
- Chill Hours: None
Key (Limequat)
Key (Limequat) is well suited for USDA Growing Zones 9A and 9B—ideal for St. Augustine and Northeast Florida gardens. Key lime × kumquat hybrid; small, tangy fruit with edible peel for cocktails and pies.
- Harvest Season (FL): November–January
- Tree Size: Small, 6–10 ft
- Uses: Key lime pies, cocktails, marinades, whole-fruit preserves
- Pollination: Self-fertile
- Chill Hours: None (cool-tolerant for citrus)
Red Lime
Red Lime is well suited for USDA Growing Zones 9A and 9B—ideal for St. Augustine and Northeast Florida gardens. Colorful lime with reddish peel and tangy juice; striking ornamental and culinary citrus.
- Harvest Season (FL): Fall–winter
- Tree Size: Small to medium, 8–15 ft
- Uses: Fresh zest, cocktails, decorative slices, marmalades
- Pollination: Self-fertile
- Chill Hours: None
Finger Lime (Red)
Finger Lime (Red) is well suited for USDA Growing Zones 9A and 9B—ideal for St. Augustine and Northeast Florida gardens. ‘Citrus caviar’ pearls in red tones; gourmet garnish with bright lime pop.
- Harvest Season (FL): August–October
- Tree Size: Small, 6–10 ft (naturally shrubby)
- Uses: Seafood garnish, cocktails, desserts, canapés
- Pollination: Self-fertile (heavier with nearby citrus)
- Chill Hours: None
