Description
They are roughly the size of a person’s index finger with a thin, but strong, skin that is usually greenish black to dark purple. The round juice pearls, which resemble ‘citrus caviar’ vary in colour from clear green to light pink.
Fresh lemon-lime flavoured juice burst from the pearls when cut open or bitten into – no squeezing required. They can be used in appetizers, drinks, main meals, seafood or dessert in place of a lemon or lime. Culinary enthusiasts may use finger limes for their complex flavor and often incorporate them into garnishes and gourmet dishes.
They are a natural immune builder, high in vitamins C and other antioxidants.
Finger Limes (Microcitrus australasica) are unique citrus plants native to the rainforests of Australia. They are small, thorny evergreens that can reach 5m, depending on the climate and planting conditions.
Please Note: Our trees are young
Position:
Finger Lime trees thrive in subtropical and tropical climates and are sensitive to cold and frost. With the ability to grow in containers, these trees are the perfect addition to your garden or patio, and can be brought indoors in winter if required.
Young Finger Lime trees will need support to withstand strong winds. Protect the trees from extreme weather conditions.
Full sun is ideal, but partial shade works too.
Container Growing:
Finger Lime trees can be grown in containers, making them suitable for patios or balconies.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
Provide adequate support for the tree as it grows.
Support and Protection:
Soil:
Plant Finger Lime trees in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and at the same depth as in the nursery bag.
Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting. Thereafter, they require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Mulching:
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising:
Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich Berry/All-plant Fertiliser (which is excellent for citrus). For young plants, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.
Pruning:
Shape the tree by pruning dead or diseased branches and thinning the canopy for better air circulation and light penetration. Prune after the fruiting season.
Pest and Disease Control:
Spray regularly with our EM Control or Neem Oil to prevent and control pests and diseases.
Harvesting:
It is best to harvest the fruit when it is fully coloured and firm and to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut it from the tree.
