Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrix) - Grafted - LIVE PLANT

Plant Insights and Care

Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrix), also known as Makrut Lime, is a small tropical citrus tree native to Southeast Asia. It’s prized for its intensely fragrant leaves and rind, both essential ingredients in Thai, Indonesian, and Malaysian cuisine. The tree is compact, thorny, and evergreen, growing up to 2–4 meters tall with dense, glossy foliage.

This lime variety thrives in warm, humid, tropical to subtropical climates and is highly suitable for cultivation in hot regions like the UAE. It prefers full sun and well-draining sandy or loamy soil, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0). Consistent moisture is important, though it should never sit in waterlogged soil. Mulching helps maintain soil moisture and keeps roots cool in high heat.

Fertilize regularly with a citrus-specific fertilizer rich in nitrogen, magnesium, and trace minerals. Prune lightly to shape the tree and remove thorny or crossing branches. Kaffir Lime can be grown both in the ground and in large containers, making it versatile for patios and gardens.

Key Points:

• Origin: Southeast Asia.

• Climate: Tropical to subtropical; tolerates heat well.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best leaf and fruit production.

• Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; water deeply when the topsoil begins to dry.

• Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil; pH 6.0–7.0.

• Fertilization: Citrus fertilizer with micronutrients applied regularly.

• Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape and airflow.

• Growth Rate: Moderate; can reach 2–4 m in height.

Fruit and Leaf Profile

The Kaffir Lime produces small, round fruits (4–6 cm) with a bumpy, dark green rind that turns slightly yellow when ripe. The rind is highly aromatic and used in curries, spice pastes, and cleaning products for its refreshing scent. The juice, though limited and extremely sour, is sometimes used in marinades.

The leaves are the plant’s most valuable feature — thick, glossy, and distinctly double-lobed (“hourglass-shaped”), with a rich citrus aroma. They are widely used in Southeast Asian cooking to flavor soups, curries, and stir-fries.

Dive into the facts:

• Taste: Highly aromatic; rind and leaves have an intense lime-citrus fragrance.

• Appearance: Small, bumpy green fruits; glossy, double-lobed leaves.

• Fun Fact: In traditional Thai households, Kaffir Lime juice was once used in hair rinses and herbal shampoos for its refreshing scent and cleansing properties.