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lemon lime tree

Searching for a lemon lime tree to add zest and freshness to your garden? Whether you love their vibrant foliage, fragrant fruit, or simply want a lively garden accent, the lemon lime tree is a star choice for New Zealand gardens. Although the classic citrus trees are always popular, many gardeners are exploring lemon lime trees for their ornamental value, multi-season interest, and easy care. Let’s explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for a lemon lime tree, plus a few stunning plant alternatives inspired by the same iconic colour palette.

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

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.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Citrus
Height: 2.50 m
Spread: 2.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern
Nandina 'Lemon And Lime' plant in a garden with lush foliage.

Nandina 'Lemon and Lime'

The 'Lemon and Lime' Nandina is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant lime-green foliage that adds year-round colour to New Zealand gardens. In cooler months, the foliage may take on subtle bronze or pink tones, enhancing its visual appeal.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 70 cm
Spread: 60 cm
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock
The best Citrus fertiliser in NZ
Citrus Fertiliser

Applying the correct citrus fertiliser in NZ is essential for achieving better quality fruit, higher yields, and a much healthier and...

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Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as Tarata or Lemonwood, is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree valued for its glossy green leaves and...

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A 'Tahitian' Lime tree with green fruit and lush, green foliage.
Lime Tahitian

The 'Tahitian' Lime is a popular and quick-growing shrub that bears masses of medium-sized fruit that are juicy, strongly scented, and have that...

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Acer palmatum 'Ukon'

Acer palmatum 'Ukon' is a distinctive Japanese Maple admired for its unusual lime green foliage that brings fresh colour to the garden. New leaves...

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Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata (Small Leaved Lime) is a majestic deciduous tree admired for its symmetrical form, heart shaped green leaves, and highly fragrant pale...

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Heuchera 'Lime Marmalade' plant with lush, lime-green foliage.
Heuchera 'Lime Marmalade'

Heuchera 'Lime Marmalade' is a vibrant perennial prized for its brilliant lime green foliage that adds brightness and contrast to the garden...

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Yellow 'Yen Ben' Lemons.
Lemon 'Yen Ben'

The 'Yen Ben' Lemon is a high-quality lemon variety prized for its smooth skin, abundant juice, and tangy flavour. Popular with chefs and home cooks...

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Lomandra Lime Tuff in a garden showing elegant foliage.
Lomandra 'Lime Tuff'

Lomandra 'Lime Tuff' is a hardy evergreen ornamental grass valued for its vibrant lime green foliage and compact tidy growth habit. This versatile...

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Santolina 'Lime Fizz' green-yellow shrub growing in a basket.
Santolina 'Lime Fizz'

Santolina 'Lime Fizz' is a vibrant evergreen shrublet admired for its bright lime green foliage and compact, mounding form. This hardy Mediterranean...

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'Meyer' Lemon yellow fruit.
Lemon 'Meyer'

The 'Meyer' Lemon is a much-loved citrus variety known for its sweeter, less acidic flavour compared to standard lemons. The thin-skinned fruit is...

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Callistemon citrinus (Red Bottlebrush) shrub covered in elegant, red flowers.
Callistemon citrinus (Lemon Scented Bottlebrush)

Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush) is a classic Australian shrub widely loved in New Zealand for its brilliant crimson red flower spikes and...

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Thymus citriodorus 'Aurea' with fantastic yellow foliage growing over a wall.
Thymus citriodorus 'Aurea' (Citrus Thyme)

Thymus citriodorus 'Aurea' is a beautiful golden leaved form of Lemon Thyme valued for its fragrant foliage, culinary uses, and ornamental appeal...

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A Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lemon' plant in a garden.
Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lemon'

Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lemon' is an evergreen shrub often used instead of Buxus for hedges. It carries dense, upright branches that host small and...

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Prunus 'Ukon'

Prunus 'Ukon' is a rare and elegant flowering cherry tree admired for its unusual pale yellow green blossoms during spring. This deciduous ornamental...

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Yellow 'Lemonade' Lemon fruit on a tree.
Lemon 'Lemonade'

The 'Lemonade' Lemon is a unique citrus variety producing sweet, refreshing fruit that can be eaten straight from the tree. Its flavour is...

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'Bearss' Lime green fruit.
Lime Bearss

The 'Bearss' Lime, also known as Persian or Tahitian lime, is a vigorous, nearly thornless citrus tree that thrives in New Zealand's warmer regions...

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Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

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Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata', also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

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Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through...

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Key Lime pie with a slice of lime.
Lime 'Key Lime'

Key Lime is a highly sought after citrus variety prized for its small, round, aromatic fruit with a tangy flavour. Known for its thin green to yellow...

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Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

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Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

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An elegant Dietes 'Lemon Drops' flower.
Dietes 'Lemon Drops'

Dietes 'Lemon Drops' is a variety of Iris that produces exquisite white flowers that have three distinct, yellow spots. These are made on slender...

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Tree Fertiliser

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

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Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

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Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

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Fruit Tree Fertiliser

Fruit Tree Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth, strong root development, and productive fruiting in a wide range of fruit...

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Citrus australasica

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Citrus, and Heuchera, or related Categories - Citrus Fertiliser, Finger Limes, and Lemon Trees.

Search lemon lime tree

What Is a Lemon Lime Tree?

The term “lemon lime tree” can refer to citrus hybrids or ornamental trees that showcase vibrant shades of lemon and lime in their foliage or fruit. For New Zealand climates, you’ll find both true citrus trees (like the Citrus limon and Citrus aurantiifolia) and a range of shrubs, perennials, and trees bred for their stunning yellow-green hues. Lemon lime trees are compact, adaptable, and highly ornamental, offering glossy foliage, delicate blossom, and bright fruit that are as visually appealing as they are useful in the kitchen.

Growing Lemon Lime Trees in New Zealand

Lemon lime trees thrive in well-drained soil and a sunny, frost-protected position. Shelter from strong winds is ideal, especially in cooler regions. Regular watering and annual feeding with a balanced fertiliser keep these citrus hybrids looking lush and productive. In the right conditions, your lemon lime tree will reward you with fragrant white blooms and a continuous display of citrus fruit—perfect for picking straight from your garden for homegrown lemonade or cocktails.

Pruning after fruiting keeps the shape compact and encourages healthy growth. Mulching helps conserve moisture and suppresses weeds, ensuring your lemon lime tree always looks its best.

Lemon Lime Colour Combos: Ornamental Alternatives

If you adore the lively colours found in lemon lime trees, consider adding more inspired options to your garden. The New Zealand-bred Coprosma 'Lemon and Lime' features radiant green-yellow foliage with a gorgeous glossy finish—ideal for year-round interest in borders or as a low hedge. For a soft-textured woodland plant, Hosta 'Lemon and Lime' offers striking chartreuse leaves that bring a fresh pop of colour to shaded spots.

Looking for upright structure? Nandina 'Lemon and Lime' presents feathery new foliage in a blend of citrus shades, making it a favourite for pots or mass planting. Gardeners who love native shrubs should check out the compact Hebe 'Lemon and Lime', which produces shimmering foliage and delicate blooms perfect for low-maintenance planting schemes. For a statement tree with buttery new growth and classic form, Tilia platyphyllos (Large-leaved Lime) is a superb choice.

Why Choose Lemon Lime Trees and Their Colourful Relatives?

Few plants inspire as much joy and vibrancy as the lemon lime tree and its ornamental cousins. With their lively yellow-green tones and easygoing care, they create year-round impact, whether you’re planning a formal avenue, a feature pot, or a productive edible garden. Explore these stunning options to give your outdoor space a burst of citrus colour and freshness—and enjoy the practical rewards for years to come.


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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.

Lomandra 'Lime Tuff' and Cereus tetragonus turn heads, but Persimmon 'Fuyu', Acer rubrum 'Bowhall', and Phormium cookianum quietly charm the most seasoned gardeners.
–The Plant Company

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