Lime Tree Plant Care
Citrus aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle
The Key lime, also known as West Indian lime, Mexican lime, or Egyptian lime is a type of lime. While it is treated as a species in botanical classification, it originated as a natural hybrid between Citrus micrantha and Citrus medica (citron).
Every 7–14 days
Full sun
55–85°F
50–70%
What Is the Lime Tree?
Lime Tree (Citrus aurantiifolia) belongs to the Rutaceae family within the Citrus genus. Lime Tree is also known as Key lime, West Indian lime, Lime.
Lime Tree displays a small to medium-sized evergreen tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Lime Tree produces fragrant white flowers with waxy petals.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Lime Tree?
Citrus aurantiifolia requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Lime Tree Need?
Lime Tree thrives in full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 500–1000 lux. Avoid placing Lime Tree in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun
500–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Lime Tree Prefer?
Citrus aurantiifolia grows best at temperatures between 55°F and 85°F. Lime Tree prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
55–85°F
Humidity
50–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Lime Tree?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Lime Tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Lime Tree?
Repot young plants annually, older plants every 2-3 years. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Lime Tree?
Lime Tree can be propagated through seeds, grafting, air-layering. Similar propagation techniques also apply to orange tree plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Lime Tree Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Lime Tree?
Lime Tree is susceptible to citrus leafminer, citrus whitefly, aphids, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Lime Tree Need?
Lime Tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. In cooler regions, grow Lime Tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 9b – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Lime Tree is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Citrus genus — compare its care with other Citrus species on PlantoScan.
Lime Tree thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
More Citrus Species
Other Citrus species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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