finger limes near me

What Are Finger Limes?

Citrus australasica, or Finger Lime, is an extraordinary citrus shrub naturally found in the Australian subtropics. Its slender, finger-shaped fruits contain tiny, jewel-like vesicles bursting with juicy, tart flavour—hence the nickname “lime caviar.” The pulp comes in a spectrum of colours, from green to deep pink, offering both visual appeal and zingy citrus notes to drinks, seafood, salsas, and desserts.

Why Grow Finger Limes in New Zealand?

Finger Limes are perfectly suited for adventurous gardeners in New Zealand. They thrive in warm, sheltered spots and can be grown in large pots or directly in the ground. With their rugged tolerance to pests and diseases, these plants demand little and give plenty—producing fruit within 2–3 years under good conditions. Beyond their culinary delights, their delicate flowers and compact, prickly foliage also make them an excellent hedge or ornamental feature.

How to Grow and Care for Finger Limes

Plant your Finger Lime in free-draining soil, protected from harsh winds and frost. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, and a good layer of mulch will help your plant settle in and produce abundant fruit. For even healthier trees, consider grafting onto a robust Citrus Rootstock.

Feed your Finger Lime with a quality citrus fertiliser in spring and summer. Keep an eye out for scale insects and aphids, although these rarely cause problems in well-tended gardens. Prune lightly to maintain shape, remove crossing branches, and encourage airflow.

Explore More Unique Citrus Varieties

If Finger Limes inspire your passion for rare and unusual citrus, why not expand your collection? Try the dramatically shaped Citrus medica sarcodactylis (Buddha’s Hand), the resilient Citrus Flying Dragon, or the refreshing Citrus junos (Yuzu). For something truly different, consider the zesty Citrus Ugli Fruit or classic Lemon 'Meyer'. Perhaps add a sweet Orange 'Washington Navel', Orange 'Newhall', or the unusual Orange 'Vaniglia Pink'. Adventurous gardeners also love the bold flavour and compact form of Kumquat 'Calamondin' (Calamondín o Kumquat).

Find Finger Limes Near You

Ready to bring this rare gem to your home? We offer healthy finger lime plants grown right here in New Zealand, ready for delivery nationwide. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just beginning your citrus journey, finding finger limes near me has never been easier. Grow your own supply of lime caviar and enjoy a slice of the subtropics in your backyard—with unbeatable flavour, beauty, and garden fascination.