fruit vegetable

Key Lime

Citrus aurantifolia 'Northern Exposure'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fruit Vegetable

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Southeastern Asia

Toxicity

Fruit is edible; leaves and peel are toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Citrus aurantifolia, the Key lime or Mexican lime, is a thorny shrub or small tree that produces a small, tart, aromatic fruit. It has fragrant white flowers and glossy evergreen leaves. Valued for its distinctive, acidic fruit used in beverages, desserts, and cooking. It is more sensitive to cold than most other citrus varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Lush, evergreen foliage provides year-round visual interest and fragrant blooms in spring.

Produces fragrant, edible fruit rich in vitamin C, ideal for culinary uses.

Supports pollinators and attracts beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist cuttings to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Fertilize monthly with citrus-specific fertilizer during growing season.
Transplant seedlings when they have established strong roots, usually after 6 weeks.
Prune lightly to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.

Pro Tip

Choose a sunny, sheltered spot to protect from cold winds and frost.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
Apply citrus fertilizer monthly during active growth
Prune to shape and remove dead wood
Mulch around the base to retain moisture

Don't

Overwater, leading to root rot ❌
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings ❌
Neglect pruning, which can lead to poor air circulation
Expose young plants to frost

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sunny citrus orchard with fragrant, fruit-bearing treesEdible hedge with aromatic foliageVanilla-scented border along walkways

Companion Plants

Marigolds Nasturtiums Basil Lavender Mint

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Key Lime questions

What zones can Key Lime grow in?

Key Lime is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Key Lime deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Key Lime, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Key Lime bloom?

Key Lime typically blooms in year-round in warm climates through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Key Lime need full sun?

Key Lime does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Key Lime drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Key Lime handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.