Pronunciation:
Introduction
Citrus limetta, commonly known in the USA as the sweet lime or Mediterranean sweet lemon, is a species of citrus, known for its sweet and mild flavor. The fruit is widely consumed in various parts of the world and is known by different names regionally, such as “mosambi” in South Asia. It is not to be confused with the bitter limes or lemons that are more commonly encountered in grocery stores.
Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Sapindales
- Family: Rutaceae
- Genus: Citrus
- Species: C. limetta
Description
Citrus limetta is a fruit-bearing evergreen tree known for its edible sweet fruit. It is primarily cultivated for its juice, which is considered less acidic and sweeter than that of its relatives, the lemon and lime. The sweet lime has some ornamental value due to its lush green foliage, fragrant flowers, and colorful fruits, but its primary value is commercial, as the fruit is consumed fresh, in juices, and in various culinary dishes.
Size
The sweet lime tree typically grows to a height of 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet) but can reach up to 7.5 meters (25 feet) under optimal conditions.
Leaves
The leaves are ovate, glossy, and evergreen, with a characteristic citrus scent when crushed. They are typically 2.5 to 7.5 centimeters (1 to 3 inches) long.
Flower
The flowers of Citrus limetta are white and fragrant, with a typical citrus blossom appearance. They are borne singly or in small clusters.
Fruit
The fruit is round, typically green to yellow when ripe, and measures 5 to 7 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) in diameter. The peel is relatively thin, and the flesh is juicy and sweet with a low acid content.
Stem
The stem of the sweet lime tree is woody and can develop thorns, which is a common trait among citrus plants.
Cultivation and Care
Planting
Sweet lime trees should be planted in well-draining soil, preferably during the spring season when the threat of frost has passed.
Soil Preference
Citrus limetta prefers loamy, well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Watering
Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry periods. However, overwatering can lead to root problems, so allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings is recommended.
Sun Requirements
Full sun is ideal for sweet lime trees, as it promotes healthy growth and fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning should be done to remove dead or diseased branches, to shape the tree, and to improve air circulation. Use clean, sharp pruning shears or loppers. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation
Propagation is typically done through grafting to ensure fruit quality and disease resistance.
Health & Safety
Citrus limetta is not known to be poisonous or toxic to humans, dogs, or cats when consumed. However, the essential oils in the peel and the plant’s foliage can cause stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. The thorns on some varieties can cause physical injury if not handled with care.
Pests and Problems
Common pests include the citrus leaf miner (Phyllocnistis citrella), aphids (Aphidoidea), and scale insects (Coccoidea). These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and fruit, leading to decreased vigor and yield. The citrus leaf miner larvae tunnel through the leaves, causing silvery trails and distorted growth. Aphids and scale insects suck sap from the plant, which can lead to yellowing leaves and sooty mold from the honeydew they excrete. Control measures include cultural practices, biological control agents, and, if necessary, the use of insecticides. Regular monitoring and good garden hygiene can help prevent severe infestations.
Caresheet Data
| Plant Name: | citrus limetta |
|---|---|
| Etymology: | Genus “Citrus” – Latin, derived from Greek “kedros” referring to cedar or juniper, possibly due to the similar fragrant wood smell. Species “limetta” – Italian “limetta,” diminutive of “lima” for lime, from Arabic “limah.” |
| Common Name: | Sweet Lemon |
| Genus: | Citrus |
| Species: | limetta |
| Family: | Rutaceae |
| Height: | 10-15 ft / 3-4.5 m / 120-180 in / 300-450 cm |
|---|---|
| Width and Spread: | 6-8 ft / 1.8-2.4 m / 72-96 in / 180-240 cm |
| Plant Type: | Common name: Sweet lime |
| Habit/Form: | Small evergreen tree |
| Leaf Type: | Simple, alternate, evergreen |
| Leaf Arrangement: | Alternate |
| Leaf Shape: | Ovate to elliptic |
| Leaf Margin: | Entire |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fragrance: | Yes; sweet, lemon-lime aroma |
| Stem Description: | The stem of Citrus limetta is woody, branched, and can have thorns. |
| Stem Is Aromatic: | No |
| Texture: | Smooth, pebbled skin |
| Leaf Feel: | Smooth, waxy |
| Leaf Length: | 5-10 cm |
| Leaf Description: | Alternate, ovate to elliptic, slightly serrated margins, glossy green, fragrant when crushed |
| Hairs Present: | No |
| Light Requirements: | Full sun to partial shade |
|---|---|
| Soil Preference: | Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) |
| Water Requirements: | Moderate; regular watering, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions. |
| Fertilizer Requirements: | N-P-K ratio of 6-6-6 or 8-8-8, applied every 1-2 months during active growth; 1-1.5 pounds of fertilizer per year for each inch of trunk diameter. |
| Pruning Requirements: | Light pruning to remove dead or crossing branches; thinning cuts to improve air circulation; occasional shaping for aesthetics; best done in late winter or early spring. |
| Seed Germination Time: | 2-6 weeks |
| Display/Harvest Time: | November to March |
| Fruit/Seed Production: | Fruit production |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Growth Habit: | Tree |
| Root System Type: | Fibrous root system |
| Fruit Type: | Citrus fruit |
|---|---|
| Fruit Description: | Pale yellow or green, spherical to slightly oblong, typically 5-7 cm in diameter, thin rind, segmented flesh, less acidic than true lemons, contains a few seeds. |
| Flower Color: | White |
| Flower Shape: | Radially symmetrical |
| Flower Inflorescence: | Axillary cymes |
| Flowering Season: | Spring to Summer |
| Bloom Duration: | 4-5 weeks |
| Drought Tolerance: | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Frost Tolerance: | Sensitive to frost; damaged at temperatures below 29°F (-1.7°C) |
| Heat Tolerance: | 30-35°C |
| Wind Tolerance: | Moderate |
| Shade Tolerance: | Moderate |
| Salt Tolerance: | Moderate |
| Soil Compaction Tolerance: | Low |
| USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: | 9-11 |
| Photoperiod Sensitivity: | Not photoperiod sensitive |
| Pollinator Attraction: | Yes; bees, butterflies. |
|---|---|
| Wildlife Value: | Attracts pollinators; provides food for birds and mammals. |
| Problematic Insects: | Citrus leafminer (Phyllocnistis citrella), Aphids (Aphidoidea), Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri), Citrus red mite (Panonychus citri), Soft scales (Coccidae) |
| Allelopathic Properties: | Yes |
| Habitat Enhancement: | Citrus limetta improves soil quality through leaf litter decomposition, provides habitat for various species, and may contribute to local biodiversity by attracting pollinators. |
| Erosion Control Potential: | Low |
| Landscape Location: | Orchards, home gardens, subtropical agricultural zones |
| Landscape Theme: | Mediterranean, Tropical, Subtropical, Orchard, Edible Garden, Container Garden |
| Design Feature: | Yes, Citrus limetta, commonly known as sweet lime, is used in landscape design for its ornamental value, fragrant flowers, and attractive fruit. |
| Ethnobotanical Significance: | Used in traditional medicine for digestive issues and as a source of vitamin C; fruit and juice consumed; peel used for flavoring. |
| Naturalization Ability: | Moderate |
| Companion Planting Suitability: | Marigolds, garlic, chives, borage, lavender, nasturtiums, yarrow |
| Edibility: | Yes |
|---|---|
| Edible Parts: | Fruit pulp, peel (zest) |
| Toxicity: | No |
| Poison Parts of Plant: | nan |
| Toxic to Humans: | No |
| Toxic to Cats: | No |
| Toxic to Dogs: | No |
| Causes Contact Dermatitis: | Yes |
| Air Purification Qualities: | Limited; more research needed |
| Medicinal Properties: | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, gastroprotective |
| Thorniness or Spikiness: | Citrus limetta can have thorns. |
Sources and Additional Reading
- Citrus Limetta – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics (www.sciencedirect.com)
- Sweet Lime (Citrus limetta) · iNaturalist (www.inaturalist.org)
- Citrus limetta Risso – GBIF (www.gbif.org)
- Analysis of ‘Marrakesh limetta’ (Citrus × limon var. limetta (Risso … (www.sciencedirect.com)
- Fermented sweet lemon juice (Citrus limetta) using Lactobacillus … (www.sciencedirect.com)
- What does citrus limetta mean? – Definitions.net (www.definitions.net)
- Sustainable utilization of Citrus limetta peel for obtaining pectin and … (link.springer.com)
