Kaffir Lime
Citrus hystrix
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Description
Kaffir Lime, or Citrus hystrix, is a small, evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly thriving in tropical and subtropical climates. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a mid-canopy layer in food forests, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Its dense foliage provides habitat and windbreak functions, while its flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Historically, Kaffir Lime has been used in traditional Southeast Asian medicine and cuisine, with its leaves and fruit imparting a distinctive citrus aroma and flavor. In guild design, it pairs well with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea and ground covers such as sweet potato, which help maintain soil health and moisture.
Growing Details
Kaffir Lime thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility and structure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can deter pests, while basil and lemongrass can enhance growth. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves as needed, and pick fruits when they are fully mature and firm. Sto
Edible Parts
Leaves
Fruit
Oil
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Windbreak
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Citrus hystrix</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Southeast Asia
applicable geo region: Tropical and subtropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of Jun for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The leaves are a staple in Southeast Asian cooking, used fresh or dried to add a citrusy aroma to curries, soups, and stir-fries. The fruit, though sour, is valued for its zest and juice, often used in marinades and sauces. The zest is rich in essential oils, enhancing both flavor and aroma.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Kaffir Lime has been traditionally used for its antiseptic properties and to aid digestion. The essential oil, extracted from the leaves and fruit, is used in aromatherapy for its calming effects and as a natural insect repellent. It is important to use the oil in moderation due to its potency.
health concerns: The essential oil should be used with caution as it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
other uses: The essential oil from the leaves and fruit is used in perfumery and as an insect repellent. The leaves can also be used in potpourri for their fragrance.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Citrus hystrix</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Citrus hystrix
common names: Kaffir Lime ; Makrut Lime ; Thai Lime
family: Rutaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Citrus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 3.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 5.0 m
max width: 3.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Kaffir Lime thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility and structure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can deter pests, while basil and lemongrass can enhance growth. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves as needed, and pick fruits when they are fully mature and firm. Sto
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids, citrus leaf miners, and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for scale insects. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes, while garlic spray can deter leaf miners.
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