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finger lime plants nz

Finger lime plants NZ enthusiasts are discovering the unique charm and culinary magic of Citrus australasica, also known as the Australian Finger Lime or Caviar Lime. Famous for their slender, finger-shaped fruit filled with tiny citrus pearls, finger limes add an exciting burst of zesty citrus flavour and visual flair to dishes and drinks. These fascinating plants are gaining popularity in New Zealand for their ornamental value, adaptability, and highly desirable fruit.

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.

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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Citrus australasica

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What Makes Finger Lime Plants Special?

Native to the rainforests of Australia, Citrus australasica stands out among citrus plants for its unusual fruit, which contains juicy vesicles resembling caviar—hence the name "caviar lime." These vesicles pop in the mouth with intense lime flavour. In New Zealand gardens, finger lime plants are treasured for their decorative foliage, aromatic flowers, and vibrant fruit that ripens in hues of green, yellow, pink, or even deep red, depending on the variety.

Growing Finger Lime Plants NZ: Tips for Success

Finger lime plants are well-suited to many regions of NZ, especially mild, frost-free areas. Here’s how to make the most of your finger lime plant:

Unique Uses for Finger Limes in New Zealand

Known as "bushfood caviar," finger limes are a gourmet delight among NZ chefs and home cooks. Sprinkle the pearls over fresh oysters, seafood, desserts, or cocktails for a citrus pop. Their tangy crunch also adds a twist to salads, curries, and even sweet recipes like pavlova.

Homegrown finger limes offer a fresh approach to using citrus in your kitchen. If you enjoy collecting unusual citrus, you might also like Citrus medica sarcodactylis, famed for its dramatic, fingered fruit, and the intriguing Citrus Flying Dragon.

Expand Your Citrus Collection

Finger lime plants pair beautifully with other rare or classic citrus in the New Zealand garden. For more tangy delights, browse our selection of:

Start Your Finger Lime Adventure

Whether you’re a collector, foodie, or simply looking to add something truly unique to your edible garden, growing finger lime plants NZ will reward you with beauty, versatility, and a taste sensation. Discover the world of unique citrus and enhance your garden with finger lime plants and more.


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.

Photinia 'Red Robin' and Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) have stood the test of time, but new generations of gardeners are discovering Poa cita, Acer 'Shindeshojo', and Hebe Jewel Of The Nile.
–The Plant Company

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