Citrus australasica, commonly known as the finger lime or caviar lime, is a small tree or shrub native to Australia. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is closely related to other citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges. The finger lime gets its name from its elongated shape, which resembles a human finger.
The fruit of the Citrus australasica plant is notable for its unique appearance and taste. It contains small, bead-like juice vesicles that resemble caviar when squeezed out of their skin. These vesicles come in various colors including green, pink, yellow, or red, depending on the variety.
Traditionally, Indigenous Australians have used the fruit for medicinal purposes due to its high vitamin C content. In recent years, it has gained popularity among chefs for its unique texture and flavor, making it a sought-after ingredient in gourmet dishes.
Citrus australasica plants are relatively easy to grow in warm climates with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. They are tolerant of drought conditions once established but require regular watering during their initial growth period.
Overall, Citrus australasica is an intriguing plant with unique culinary applications that can add an exotic touch to any dish. Its high vitamin C content also offers health benefits, making it an excellent addition for both garden enthusiasts and foodies alike!
Australian finger lime is resistant to many diseases and is generally not susceptible to them. Regarding care, the plant is relatively low-maintenance. When planted outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Australian finger limet is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much care experience.
How to keep Citrus Australasica.
Light
The Australian finger lime comes from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest edges, which provide plenty of light. It performs best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adjusting well to different sunlight levels.
Water
The Australian finger lime flourishes in the rainforests of Australia, where it benefits from high humidity and well-balanced moisture levels. To mimic its natural environment, the plant needs to be watered every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen, the Australian finger lime retains its leaves throughout the year, which helps in conserving water during dry spells.
Humidity
This plant needs special care because it loves high humidity levels of 60-80% or more. The best way to achieve this is by placing a humidifier near the plant. Daily misting is also essential! Make sure the room has good ventilation.
Temperature
Australian finger lime is fairly adaptable to temperature, capable of enduring higher heat and larger temperature swings. In hot conditions, attention should be given to irrigation and providing appropriate shade to prevent sunburn. Conversely, Australian finger lime has relatively low cold tolerance. While it can handle some chill, excessively cold conditions can result in frost damage.
Fertilizer
The Australian finger lime plant needs adequate nutrients to achieve optimal fruit production. Apply fertilizer in early spring to support new growth and bloom development. Regular fertilization keeps the plant healthy, encourages more flavorful fruit, and prevents nutrient-deficiency problems like yellow leaves and poor fruit production.
Pruning
The Australian finger lime thrives in subtropical climates and produces tangy fruit with a caviar-like texture. To maintain a healthy tree, key pruning tasks include removing dead branches and shaping the canopy to improve light exposure and air circulation. For optimal fruit production and size management, prune the tree from early to late winter. Be sure to use sterilized tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Citrus
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9
- Mature Height
- 0 cm to 20 cm
- Mature Spread
- 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Purple
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Spring
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Fall
Other names.
