This small tree has a short trunk with many thorny branches that form an open rounded crown. It has mid green elliptical leaves and the scented white cup-shaped flowers appear in a cluster from spring to summer follower by eatable fruit.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Citrus aurantifolia (Lime) is naturally found in south-east Asia growing in scrubland and in woodland thickets in well drained moderately fertile moist soil in an open sunny position and is frost, wind and drought tender.

Lime is a popular shrub for the domestic garden producing fruit that is juicy and is used in drinks and for cooking. It is also grown in pots or planter boxes and used in border plantings for screening. In cooler regions it is grown under glass as a specimen. It is fast growing and establishes in 3 to 5 years and is moderately deer resistant.ID 689

Citrus(SIT-rus) aurantiifolia(ow-răn-tee-i-FO-lee-a)

"Citrus", from the Latin name for the citron, citron medica, prized for its fruit since biblical times; "aurantifolia", from the Latin words meaning "with leaves like the aurantum(Seville orange)".