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Plant Profiles / Kaffir lime
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Kaffir lime
Citrus hystrix · Makrut lime
A compact citrus grown for its fragrant double leaves used in Thai cooking. Bumpy limes too.
Full sunLight
Twice a weekWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Twice a week
DryWet
Even.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
5–38°C (41–100°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
1.5 m in pots.
Soil
Citrus mix
LeanRich
Free-draining.
Fertiliser
Spring–autumn
RarelyOften
Citrus.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Citrus oils.
About this plant
Native to South-East Asia. Leaves are harvested year-round; keep it trimmed in pots.
Best spots
Sunny, sheltered balconies.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Citrus hystrix |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Origin | South-East Asia |
| Plant type | Citrus tree |
| Mature size | 1.5 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Double leaves |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest
Fertilise
HarvestFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow | Hungry. |
| Leaf miner | Prune. |
| Scale | Oil. |
| Cold | Protect. |
| Thorns | Normal. |
Common questions
Use?
Leaves in curries.
Pots?
Yes.
Frost?
No.
Fruit?
Zest.
