SafePlants

Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrix)

The Kaffir lime, scientifically known as Citrus hystrix, is a fragrant citrus fruit and plant prized for its unique leaves and fruit, especially in Asian cuisine. It is also referred to as makrut lime, Mauritius papeda, kieffer lime, Thai lime, magrood, or wild lime.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has bumpy fruit.
• The fruit has a highly acidic flavor and peel.
• Essential oils are extracted from the rind (peel) and leaves.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has bumpy fruit.
• The fruit has a highly acidic flavor and peel.
• Essential oils are extracted from the rind (peel) and leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Citrus hystrix DC.
• Common Names: Kaffir lime, makrut lime, Mauritius papeda, kieffer lime, Thai lime, magrood, wild lime
• Family: Rutaceae (citrus family)
• Kingdom: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be Plantae (plant kingdom)
• Subgenus: Papeda
• Synonyms:
  • Citrus auraria Michel.
  • Citrus echinata Saint-Lager
  • Citrus hyalopulpa Tanaka
  • Citrus kerrii (Swingle) Tanaka
  • Citrus macroptera
  • Citrus aurantium saponacea Saff.
  • Citrus balincolong (Yu. Tanaka) Yu.Tanaka.
  • Citrus bergamia unguentaria M.Roem.
• Taxonomic Serial Number (TSN): 825206

Distribution and Habitat

Kaffir lime is native to tropical Asia, specifically Indochina and Malesia, including India and Indonesia. It is widely grown worldwide as a backyard plant. It thrives in USDA Zones 10-12 and grows well in sandy, well-drained soils with full sun to light shade.

Morphological Characteristics

• The Kaffir lime is a small tree or bush, sometimes described as a dwarf citrus tree, reaching up to 5 feet tall. Some resources state a hight of 70-90cm.
• It produces bumpy, green citrus fruit that matures to yellow.
• The fruit has a highly acidic flavor.
• The leaves are "double" with a distinctive petiole and are known for their aromatic, lemony flavor.

Traditional Uses

• The leaves are primarily used in Asian cuisine, particularly Thai cooking, for flavoring.
• The rough skin of the fruit is used as a rind.

Interactions with Other Organisms

The plant's essential oils have demonstrated antibacterial activity against respiratory tract pathogens.