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Key Lime (West Indian Lime) - Citrus aurantifolia

Name: Key Lime (West Indian Lime) - Citrus aurantifolia
Brand: Plant Nest
SKU: Citrus aurantifolia - 20cm
Price: 138.95 AUD
Availability: OutOfStock

Compact evergreen lime tree producing small, aromatic, low-acid fruit year-round — ideal for pots, courtyards, and Melbourne edible gardens.

$173.95

$138.95

Pot Size:

20cm

20cm 25cm 30cm

Variant

Free Delivery to Melbourne Metro for Orders over $750.00*

Quick Facts

Position

Full Sun or Semi Shade. Thrives in warm Melbourne microclimates.

Size

2–4m high × 2–4m wide. Compact and dense habit.

Water

Moderate. Keep moist during dry periods, mulch well.

Uses

Edible garden, container planting, feature tree, small gardens, coastal garden.

Description

Citrus aurantifolia, known as the Key Lime or West Indian Lime, is a compact evergreen tree ideal for Melbourne backyards and patios. It produces small, round, aromatic fruit with a strong lime flavour and low acid content. The fruit ripens mainly through autumn and winter but can appear year-round in warmer conditions. With its dense branching habit and glossy green foliage, it’s perfect for containers, small gardens, or tropical-themed landscapes.

Key Features:

Evergreen foliage and compact growth suitable for pots or small gardens.
Produces juicy, aromatic fruit with distinctive lime flavour and low acidity.
Attractive small white flowers in spring, often fruiting year-round in warm conditions.
Tolerant of coastal exposure and light frost once established.
Perfect for edible and tropical-style gardens across Melbourne and Australia.

Growing & Care Guide

Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy soil enriched with organic matter.
Light: Full sun for best fruiting, though tolerates light shade.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; water deeply during hot Melbourne summers.
Fertiliser: Use a slow-release citrus fertiliser in spring and midsummer.
Maintenance: Prune lightly to maintain shape; remove dead or crossing branches.
Flowering: Spring bloom followed by fruit developing through autumn and winter.

Landscaping Ideas

Key Lime trees make an excellent addition to Melbourne’s courtyard and balcony gardens. Use as a potted feature near outdoor entertaining spaces, or mix with other citrus varieties such as lemons and oranges for a continuous harvest. Their fragrant flowers and glossy leaves also suit tropical and coastal-themed gardens.

Expert Tip

Protect young lime trees from frost in their first few winters using horticultural fleece or a sheltered courtyard position.

FAQ's

Q: Does Citrus aurantifolia grow well in Melbourne?

Yes. It performs well in Melbourne’s warmer microclimates when planted in a sunny, sheltered position.

Q: Is the fruit from the Key Lime edible?

Absolutely. The small green fruit is aromatic, juicy, and perfect for drinks, desserts, and cooking.

Q: Can I grow Key Lime in a pot?

Yes. It’s one of the best citrus species for container growing due to its compact form.

Why Choose Plant Nest?

At Plant Nest, we make it easy to buy plants online with delivery direct to your door. Every plant is hand-selected for quality, carefully packed, and backed by expert advice so you can grow with confidence.