Finger Lime
Citrus australasica
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Finger Lime, native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia, is a small, thorny shrub or tree that produces unique cylindrical fruits. These fruits are prized for their caviar-like vesicles, which burst with a tangy, citrus flavor. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Finger Lime serves as an understory shrub in food forests, contributing to biodiversity and providing habitat for beneficial insects. Its dense foliage and thorny branches make it ideal for hedgerows, offering protection for small animals and promoting wildlife diversity. Historically, Indigenous Australians utilized Finger Lime for its nutritional and potential antiseptic properties. It thrives in diverse soil types and can be integrated into guilds with plants like lemon myrtle and macadamia, enhancing ecosystem resilience.
Growing Details
Finger Lime prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted compost and organic matter. Mulch with organic materials like straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lemon balm and marigold can help repel pests. Avoid overwatering, as Finger Lime is susceptible to root rot. Harvest fruits when they are firm and colored, typically from late spring to early autumn. Store in a cool, dry place or refrige
Tags
Hedge
Attracts Wildlife
Windbreak
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Citrus australasica</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: Eastern Australia
applicable geo region: Australia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of November for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: Finger Lime fruits are primarily used in culinary applications, where their unique texture and flavor enhance dishes. The vesicles are often used as a garnish in salads, seafood, and desserts, and their juice can be used in beverages. The fruits are available seasonally from late spring to early autumn.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Finger Lime has been used by Indigenous Australians for its potential antiseptic properties and as a rich source of vitamin C, which supports immune health. The fruit can be consumed fresh or as a juice to harness these benefits.
health concerns: While generally safe, excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort due to its acidity.
other uses: The plant can be used as a natural hedge or barrier due to its thorny nature, providing windbreaks and habitat for wildlife.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Citrus australasica</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Citrus australasica
common names: Finger Lime; Caviar Lime; Australian Finger
family: Rutaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Citrus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 2.5 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(9/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 3.0 m
max width: 2.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Finger Lime prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted compost and organic matter. Mulch with organic materials like straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lemon balm and marigold can help repel pests. Avoid overwatering, as Finger Lime is susceptible to root rot. Harvest fruits when they are firm and colored, typically from late spring to early autumn. Store in a cool, dry place or refrige
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miners. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for scale insects. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help deter pests. Regularly inspect plants and remove any infested leaves to prevent spread.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...