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Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)
Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)
Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)
Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)
Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)
Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)

Citrus Direct

Kaffir Lime Tree (Makrut Lime Tree)

Sale price $69.95

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Size
Size guide

Please note: OurEstablished Range, Medium Standard Range (14L pot), andTall Standard Range trees are available for pickup only, as their size exceeds standard courier limits. 

Size chart

The Kaffir Lime tree (Makrut Lime tree) is a fantastic citrus tree for adding a unique Southeast Asian touch to your garden and culinary adventures. The fruit of the Kaffir lime tree (Makrut lime tree) are green ripening to a pale yellow, have a bumpy-skin and are roughly rounded. They're not juicy like regular limes, but their rind and the leaves pack a powerful punch of aroma and flavour. This intense aroma is what makes them a prized ingredient in Thai, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian cuisines, adding a unique depth of flavour to curries, soups, and stir-fries. While they love warm summers, Makrut limes are surprisingly cold-tolerant and can handle light frosts once established. The trees are relatively low maintenance. Water regularly, especially during hot spells and fruit development. Feed with a citrus-specific fertiliser in spring.

The name, Kaffir lime, is considered to be a racial slur due to the word kaffir. Because of this, this lime it is becoming more frequently known by its Thai name: Makrut.

Names

Makrut Lime, Kaffir Lime, Thai Lime, Citrus hystrix

Origin

Tropical Southeast Asia

Mature Size

2-3 meters in height and width, although they can be contained in larger pots. They have a slightly open, bushy growth habit.

Foliage

glossy, deep green leaves with a distinctive "waist," giving them a two-part appearance.

Soil

Well-drained soil is crucial! Amend your soil with compost or sand to ensure good drainage, as waterlogging can damage the roots.

Position

Choose a sheltered spot with full sun or dappled shade, especially in colder regions.

Flavour

The leaves and rind are rich in essential oils, releasing a powerful citrusy aroma with hints of lemongrass and lime when crushed or rubbed.

Fruiting

Makrut limes can take several years to bear fruit, usually in spring.

Fruit Uses

The leaves are the true star of the Makrut. Used whole or shredded, they impart an irresistible fragrance and citrusy depth to curries, soups, stir-fries, and more. The rind is also used in some recipes, though not as frequently as the leaves. Also used for cosmetics.