Key Lime Tree

Also called Mexican Lime

Characteristics of Key Lime Trees

Key Lime trees are highly adaptable to growing in containers (either indoors or out), which explains their popularity among home citrus gardeners. If you live in a warm enough climate, Key Lime trees can be planted in the ground. They are naturally dwarf, reaching a height of 12′. The size can be controlled by planting the tree in a container and pruning it.
The tree itself is stunning: glossy green leaves are decorated with fragrant baby-pink blossoms—a real conversation piece for your patio, not to mention the bonus of fresh-picked Key limes! You may be surprised to see these lovely citrus trees bloom again as the limes grow, meaning a long harvest of exquisite fruit. Each lime takes 6-9 months to ripen.

About the Fruit

Key limes are not often found in grocery stores in the United States; they are more widely available in Mexico and the Caribbean. Not to be confused with Persian limes, Key limes are most famous as the main ingredient in Key Lime pie (first made popular in the Florida Keys, as the name suggests).
A Key lime is roughly half the size of a store lime, and the peel is quite thin in comparison. The ripe fruit is yellow or yellow-green and highly acidic, emitting the wonderful tropical aroma of fresh lime. Limes contain lots of vitamin C as well as the antioxidant known as flavanone.

The fruit is essential for making Key Lime pie—substituting grocery-store limes is considered a culinary sin by pie purists. You can also use the fruit and juice for cocktails and limeade, marinades, salsa and marmalade.

Growing Key Lime Trees

This item can be grown in colder climates if it’s planted in a container and brought indoors during the winter months. These citrus trees require moist—but not wet—soil and should be watered deeply, but not often. The ideal soil pH is neutral. With a consistent fertilization program, you’ll be enjoying your first Key Limes in just a couple of years. Full sun is a necessity to grow this fruit. It is a tropical plant, so it tolerates heat well but is not cold-hardy. If you live in a growing zone other than one that’s recommended for a Key Lime, treat the tree as you would a houseplant and bring it indoors well before any frost or freezing temperatures arrive.

Pruning is not usually required except to shape the tree.

Key limes are self-pollinating. If grown/planted outdoors, it will be pollinated by natural means. If your tree lives indoors, you can pollinate it manually by using a small paint brush or makeup brush.

There is no substitute for a Key Lime—to enjoy their unique flavor (and especially if you want authentic Key Lime pie)—you’ll need to grow your own. It’s fun and easy … try one!

This variety is self pollinating.