Kaffir Lime
Kaffir
lime (Citrus hystrix). Kaffir lime is from Southeast Asia and
popular in Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is a small,
slow growing tree with dark green leaves and thorns. The fruits are
rough skinned and the leaves are winged. The leaves and sometimes the
peel and juice of the fruit are used for the lemon flavor.
Soil Management
Will grow in a wide range of soils, prefers well drained fertile soil.
Planting
The
tree will grow between 6-30 feet but because it is slow growing, it can be
kept in containers. If pruned, it can be planted in the ground and kept small.
Graft scions onto disease resistant rootstock if possible. Plants grown from
seed are thorny.
Irrigation
Moderate
moisture is needed.
Insect & Disease Control
Pests
include whiteflies, aphids, scales, and the citrus leafminer.
Harvesting
Cut
the young to newly mature leaves as needed. Leaves can also be frozen or dried.