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lime tree varieties nz

Looking for the best lime tree varieties NZ gardeners can grow? New Zealand’s climate is ideal for many different types of lime trees, from classic favourites to unique cultivars perfect for a sunny patio or productive home orchard. Choosing the right lime variety is important for fruit flavour, ripening time, and tree size. This guide explores the most popular lime tree varieties NZ has to offer, tips on caring for them, and creative ways to use limes in your garden landscape.

Coprosma Poor Knights with lush green foliage.

Coprosma 'Poor Knights' (Taupata)

5 from 2 customers

Coprosma 'Poor Knights' is a vibrant evergreen shrub valued for its glossy lime green foliage and compact rounded habit. This NZ native selection performs exceptionally well in coastal and urban gardens, offering reliable year round colour.

From $11.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Groundcover Plants
Height: 50 cm
Spread: 1.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Ground covering, Paths & Steps, Ponds
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
Lomandra Little Lime in a garden with lush, green foliage.

Lomandra Little Lime

5 from 2 customers

Lomandra Little Lime is a compact ornamental grass known for its vibrant lime-green foliage and tidy, rounded form. Growing to about 50 cm in height and width, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly tolerant of drought, frost, wind, and coastal conditions.

From $21.39

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 50 cm
Spread: 50 cm
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Banks, Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lime' plants with lush, green foliage.
Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lime'

Lonicera 'Honey Hedge Lime' is a bright and eye catching honeysuckle valued for its vivid lime foliage and compact, tidy habit. This hardy shrub...

From$16.95
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...

From$29.95
'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...

From$34.95
tilia-cordata-1
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...

From$515.35
acer-ukon-
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...

From$349.95
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...

From$23.39
A Liquidambar 'Gumball' tree with fabulous autumn colours.
Liquidambar styraciflua 'Gumball'

Liquidambar 'Gumball' is a small tree grown for its form and fantastic autumn colours. This popular ornamental tree features leaves that emerge lime...

From$387.55
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...

From$17.87
Citrus australasica (Finger Lime) fruit with yellow flesh cut in half.
Citrus australasica

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...

From$34.95
'Kaffir' Lime fruit with a wrinkly, green skin.
Lime Kaffir (Makrut Lime)

The 'Kaffir' Lime is a quick-growing and compact shrub that produces unusual-looking fruit. The fruit is green, warty, and inedible due to the thick...

From$34.95
prunus-ukon-3
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...

From$515.35
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...

From$387.55
Hoheria 'Alba Variegata' variegated foliage with white flowers.
Hoheria populnea 'Alba Variegata'

Hoheria populnea 'Alba Variegata' is a striking NZ native tree prized for its distinctive foliage and seasonal displays. This evergreen variety...

From$494.05
ulmus-lobel-
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...

From$557.95
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...

From$515.35
Lagerstroemia 'Crimson Red' showy red flowers.
Lagerstroemia 'Crimson Red'

Lagerstroemia ‘Crimson Red’ is a striking crepe myrtle renowned for its deep crimson summer flowers and attractive upright tree form. Flowering...

From$30.29
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
Lagerstroemia 'Souvenir Hubert Pouard' pink flowers.
Lagerstroemia 'Souvenir Hubert Pouard'

Lagerstroemia ‘Souvenir Hubert Pouard’ is a refined crepe myrtle valued for its rich rose pink summer flowers and elegant upright tree form...

From$30.29
Lagerstroemia 'Soir D'Ete' pink flowers on a shrub.
Lagerstroemia 'Soir D Ete'

Lagerstroemia ‘Soir D Ete’ is a refined crepe myrtle producing elegant soft mauve pink flowers through the height of summer. This attractive variety...

From$30.29
Lagerstroemia 'De Puard' cluster of light pink flowers.
Lagerstroemia 'De Puard'

Lagerstroemia ‘De Puard’ is an attractive crepe myrtle valued for its soft coloured summer flowers and well balanced upright form. Flowering through...

From$30.29
cedrela-sinensis-flamingo-7
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...

From$28.91
A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai)

Sophora godleyi is a magnificent New Zealand native tree valued for its graceful weeping branches and bright yellow flowers that appear in spring...

From$323.65
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...

From$99.29
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
Libertia grandiflora plant with elegant white flowers and lush, dark green foliage.
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as NZ Iris, is a hardy New Zealand native perennial admired for its elegant white flowers and sword like green...

From$16.50
Disphyma australe pink flowers and fleshy, green leaves.
Disphyma australe (NZ Ice Plant)

Disphyma australe, commonly known as NZ Ice Plant, is a hardy and attractive groundcover valued for its fleshy, bright green foliage and striking...

From$14.95
aloe-barberae-
Aloidendron barberae (Tree Aloe)

Commonly known as Tree Aloe, this is a large variety of Aloe that can reach 15 m tall and 3 m wide. This impressive tree forms a rounded crown of...

From$57.89
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
Tree Guards (Tree Guards)

Our tree guards and plant shelters are bio-degradable products that are perfect for using in riparian areas and other exposed positions. They are...

From$5.00
avocado-bacon-
Avocado 'Bacon'

Avocado 'Bacon' is a popular variety known for its smooth green skin, medium sized fruit, and mild, buttery flavour. This evergreen fruit tree is...

From$229.95
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
Coprosma 'Poor Knights' (Taupata)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Coprosma, and Lime, or related Categories - Lime Trees, Grasses, and Groundcover Plants.

Search lime tree varieties nz

Best Lime Tree Varieties NZ Homeowners Love

NZ gardeners are spoiled for choice when it comes to lime trees, each bringing its own set of qualities to the table. The highly productive Lime Kusaie is a standout option for its abundant crops and reliable harvests. This variety is known for its tangy, aromatic fruit that's perfect for juicing or zesting.

Another popular option is the Lime Sublime, prized for its compact growth habit and heavy fruit set on newer branches. It’s an excellent choice for container gardens or smaller spaces, allowing even urban dwellers to enjoy homegrown limes.

Care and Growing Tips for Lime Trees in NZ

Lime trees thrive in well-drained soil and full sun—with at least six hours of bright light each day. Protect your lime trees from strong winds and frosts, especially in the cooler regions of New Zealand. Regular watering is important during dry periods, and a citrus-specific fertiliser keeps foliage lush and fruit production high.

Mulch around the base helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay, but avoid letting mulch touch the trunk. Most lime varieties, including Lime Kusaie and Lime Sublime, should be pruned lightly in late winter to keep their shape and encourage new growth.

Landscape Companions and Decorative Lime Lookalikes

If you love the look of vibrant lime foliage in your garden, consider pairing your lime tree with Coprosma 'Lemon and Lime'. This evergreen shrub offers striking variegated leaves that echo the fresh hues of lime, providing foliage interest year-round.

For those intrigued by ornamental trees, Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra) brings bold spring flowers and complements the citrus collection beautifully. Meanwhile, Tilia platyphyllos (Large-leaved Lime) adds a classic charm to mixed tree plantings, though it produces a different kind of lime altogether—its fragrant flowers attract pollinators and provide dappled summer shade.

Why Choose Different Lime Tree Varieties in NZ?

Growing multiple lime tree varieties in NZ lets you extend your harvest season and enjoy a range of fruit flavours. Some types are great for classic cocktails and cooking, while others offer unique aroma and decorative appeal. Whether you choose Lime Kusaie, Lime Sublime, or companion plants like Coprosma 'Lemon and Lime', you’ll find your New Zealand garden richer in both style and flavour.

Explore our range and discover the lime tree varieties NZ gardeners trust for beauty and bounty in every backyard.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
There’s more to explore beyond Photinia 'Red Robin' and Rhododendron 'Pawhuska' — like the subtle beauty of Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka), Plum 'Greengage', and Grevillea Ignite (Ignite Grevillea).
–The Plant Company

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