Citrus Australasica Finger Lime
Citrus Australasica Finger Lime
The Finger Lime (Citrus australasica) is a unique Australian native citrus prized for its slim, finger-shaped fruit filled with tangy, caviar-like pearls. It’s a great choice for New Zealand gardens where something a little different is wanted, and it grows well in the ground or large containers when given the right care.
Finger Lime plants perform best in a warm, sunny position.
- Choose a spot with full sun to light shade
- Shelter from strong winds, especially in cooler regions
- Ideal for north-facing sites, patios, or courtyards
In colder areas, growing Citrus australasica in a large pot allows it to be moved to a more protected spot over winter.
Nicknamed the caviar of citrus fruit. Small green fruit with beads of juicy tart lime flavour. Excellent in a summer drink, on a salmon canape and in a dessert. But there is a price to pay for it's deliciousness, the spikey foliage but worth the challenge!
Frost Protection
While tougher than many citrus, Finger Limes can still be affected by frost.
- Protect young plants from heavy frosts
- Use frost cloth or move containers under cover in winter
- Mature plants tolerate light frosts once established
- Expected 5 Year Height 2.0 M Width 2.0 M
Is Citrus Australasica Finger Lime suitable for my garden?
Is Citrus Australasica Finger Lime suitable for my garden?
Citrus Australasica Finger Lime is best suited in a position that gets
- Partial shade
- Full sun
Citrus Australasica Finger Lime is
- Edible
- Frost Tender
- Fragrant
- Evergreen
Citrus Australasica Finger Lime will thrive in soil that is
- Normal
- Nutrient rich
- Free draining
- Sandy
How to establish your Citrus Australasica Finger Lime?
How to establish your Citrus Australasica Finger Lime?
Good drainage is essential for healthy growth.
- Prefers free-draining soil
- Will tolerate sandy or loamy soils
- Improve heavy soils with organic matter and drainage material
- When growing in pots, use a quality citrus or free-draining potting mix
Avoid waterlogged areas, as wet roots can cause decline.
How to maintain your Citrus Australasica Finger Lime once established?
How to maintain your Citrus Australasica Finger Lime once established?
Finger Limes are naturally slow-growing and don’t need heavy pruning.
- Lightly prune to shape and remove dead or crossing branches
- Be aware the plant has sharp thorns, so wear gloves
- Prune after fruiting or in late winter to early spring
- Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch clear of the trunk.
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