Australian finger lime Zaareo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Finger lime, is a unique Australian citrus known for its elongated fruits filled with tangy, bead-like juice vesicles. Its vibrant colors and burst of flavor make it a standout ingredient in fancy dishes.
Names
Scientific
Citrus australasica
English
Australian finger lime
Caviar lime
Spanish
Caviar cítrico
Lima dedo
Taxonomy
Genus
Citrus
Family
Rutaceae
Order
Sapindales
Basic information and facts
Origin:
Eastern Australia, primarily in subtropical rainforests.
Distribution:
Native to Australia, cultivated in select regions worldwide.
Annual, biennial, or perennial:
Perennial.
Flowers:
Small, white or pale pink flowers with a delicate fragrance.
Leaves:
Small, dark green, and elliptical with a glossy surface.
Fruits:
Elongated, finger-shaped fruits with bead-like juice vesicles in vibrant colors such as green, pink, and red.
Climate and weather:
Thrives in subtropical to warm temperate climates with good rainfall.
Pollination:
Pollinated by insects, including bees.
Height:
Typically grows 2-7 meters, depending on cultivation and pruning.
Spacing:
Planted 3-5 meters apart for optimal growth.
Propagation:
Usually propagated via grafting or seeds.
Insect pests:
Aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miners.
Diseases:
Citrus canker and Phytophthora root rot.
Harvesting:
Fruits are hand-picked when firm and fully colored, typically in late summer to autumn.
Uses:
Used in gourmet dishes, desserts, cocktails, and as a garnish for its tangy flavor and visual appeal.
Crop categories
Pictures
Australian finger lime Zaareo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Australian finger lime Amada44, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
