Lime Trees
Persian Limes, Key Limes, Red Limes, Indian Sweet Limes, Kaffir Limes, how do you plant just one?
Persian Lime
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
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
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 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
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)
‘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