Citrus sp. Key Lime
Family: Rutaceae
Origin: Artificial hybrid
Growth: Bushy, branching
Light: Full sun
Foot Candles: 250+
Water: Keep moist
Can tolerate very short drought
Humidity: 40% - 90%
Temperature: 18°C - 28°C
Soil: Well draining potting mix
Container: Self-watering planter
Nutrients: Citrus fertilizer mix monthly in Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Propagation: Seed or grafting
Interiorscape Use: Large planter, patio, atrium
Common Pests: Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites, Scale, Thrips, Leaf-miners
Common Issues: Cold drafts can cause leaf drop. Root rot when sitting in water.
Comments: Indoor / Summer patio citrus. Used in beverages, essential oils, edible fruits, and spices. Plant is self-pollinating. Great source of vitamin C. Be careful with the thorns along the branches. To get a better yield of lemons, manually pollinating the flowers with a paintbrush or Q-tip can greatly increase fruit count. Having multiple plants will also benefit the overall yield, as well as providing access to pollinating insects for the trees. Fruit first appears green and then ripens to yellow.
Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, depression; potential dermatitis. The fruit is edible, skins and plant material can cause problems.
