finger lime plant

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

The finger lime plant (Citrus australasica), also known as Caviar Lime, is an extraordinary citrus species native to Australia but increasingly sought after in New Zealand gardens. Loved for its unique elongated fruit packed with jewel-like vesicles that burst with tangy flavour, the finger lime plant makes an exciting addition to both home gardens and gourmet kitchens. With a compact, shrubby growth habit and attractive, aromatic foliage, this citrus tree is suitable for container growing or as a unique feature in your edible landscape. If you're looking to expand your citrus collection with a plant that offers something truly different, the finger lime plant is an outstanding choice for New Zealand gardeners.

Citrus australasica

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Citrus australasica, commonly known as the Finger Lime or Caviar Lime, is an evergreen shrub grown for its unusual fruit, which is regarded as a food delicacy. The oblong fruit has caviar-like flesh, which is juicy with a tangy, lemon-lime flavour. Citrus australasica typically grows to 2 m tall and the same wide, and can be pruned as necessary. The trees are commonly added to a mixed planting, planted around outdoor living areas, maintained in containers, or grown as small specimens.

Buy Citrus australasica

From $28.28

Citrus australasica (Finger Lime) fruit with yellow flesh cut in half.

Suited to regions:
Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:
Citrus
Height:
2.00 m
Spread:
2.00 m
Flowering time:
Summer
Garden uses:
Containers, Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles:
Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern

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Why Grow a Finger Lime Plant?

The finger lime plant stands out not only for its distinctive appearance but also for its incredible versatility. The fruits are famous for their zesty "citrus caviar" – perfect for topping oysters, garnishing salads, or adding a flavour punch to cocktails and desserts. These plants are suitable for gardens of all sizes and can even thrive in large pots, given adequate drainage and sunlight. Their compact size and delicate spines make them ideal as a conversation-starting patio plant or as a productive companion within a citrus grove.

Cultivation Tips for New Zealand Gardens

Finger lime plants prefer a sunny, sheltered spot with well-draining soil. While they're more tolerant of cooler conditions than many citrus varieties, protection from harsh frost is advisable. Regular watering during dry periods helps maintain fruit set, and a yearly application of citrus-specific fertiliser encourages healthy growth and prolific fruiting. Consider your rootstock options when planting or grafting – many gardeners find success using Citrus Rootstock for improved health and adaptability.

Pair with Other Unique Citrus Varieties

If the finger lime plant has captured your imagination, you'll find a world of fascinating citrus to accompany it. Try growing Citrus medica sarcodactylis, known as Buddha’s Hand, for its aromatic, segmented fruit, or the unusual Citrus Flying Dragon for its striking twisted branches and hardy nature. Consider tucking Citrus junos, the Yuzu, into your garden for its unique culinary uses, or experiment with vibrant Mandarin 'Encore' and Mandarin 'Miyagawa' for a continuous supply of sweet, easy-to-peel fruit.

Harvest and Use

Finger lime fruit is typically harvested from late autumn through early winter. Gently twist the fruit from the branch once it yields slightly to pressure. The caviar-like pulp stores well and adds both flavour and visual appeal to a wide range of dishes. For further citrus exploration in your garden, you might also enjoy varieties such as Lemon Meyer and Yen Ben (Double Grafted Lemon), the tangy Citrus Ugli Fruit, and the sweet Orange 'Newhall'.

By including the finger lime plant in your collection, you’re not just growing a fruit tree – you’re introducing a conversation starter, a gourmet ingredient, and a touch of the exotic to your edible oasis.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.