Finger Limes are a native citrus species from northern NSW that produce long, finger-shaped fruit which resembles caviar. A hardy citrus species, our range can be grown in cool to tropical climates. Beautiful in pots as attractive citrus for inner-city balconies or perfect for the suburban backyard. First Nations People have used it for thousands of years, becoming one of the most renowned bush food items in restaurants worldwide.

Replace For: Lemon or Lime Trees

Botanical Name: Citrus australasica
Size: The tree is about 60cm tall now and can reach up to 2m when adult.
Variety Differences: Green varieties are more acidic and eucalypty, similar to limes, the red varieties typically are lighter in flavour with hints of grapefruity and yellow will be more lemony.

Where does it grow?
Our trees are frost tolerant and can be grown in any Australian climate and up to -7 degrees Celsius. It can grow in Tropical, Sub-Tropical, Cold and Temperate Zones. If you live in an Arid Zone, make sure to substitute water through daily watering.

Find your climate zone here.

inger lime fruits are usually harvested when they are fully matured and have reached their maximum size, color, and flavor. The exact timing of the harvest may vary depending on the variety of finger lime, the growing conditions, and the intended use of the fruit. However, as a general rule, finger limes are ready for harvest around 7 to 9 months after flowering. Here are some signs to look for to determine if your finger lime fruits are ready to be harvested: Size and shape: Mature finger limes are typically about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch in diameter, depending on the variety. They should be plump and rounded, with a slight taper at the stem end. Color: The color of the finger lime fruits is an important indicator of ripeness. Depending on the variety, they may turn from green to shades of yellow, pink, purple, or brown as they ripen. The color should be uniform and vibrant. Texture: Finger limes are ready for harvest when the skin is slightly soft and the fruit feels heavy for its size. Gently press the fruit with your finger to check for ripeness. Taste: Finally, taste is the ultimate test of ripeness. The flesh of a ripe finger lime should be juicy, tangy, and slightly sweet. The flavour may vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Native to Northern NSW, it's a drought-tolerant citrus species that required approximately 50% less water than traditional citrus species.

Pot growing:
If growing in a pot, please make sure to keep well-watered.

It's common for people to over-water their finger limes, however, Finger Limes prefer semi-dry conditions.

How big does it get?
The tree is about 60cm tall now and can reach up to 2m when adult.

How long does it take to fruit?
These trees are grafted, which means that they are ready to fruit and should take 1-2 years before fruiting. Make sure to give your Finger Lime lots of sun and citrus fertiliser to push growth.

Sunlight?
Finger Limes are a fruiting plant that are required to be grown in a full-sun position. The more sun you're able to provide your Finger Lime, the better growth and harvest you'll experience. North or south facing gardens or balconies are ideal, although you may have limited success in East or West facing spaces.

Fertilizing?
Use a natural citrus fertilizer to significantly improve plant health and harvest potential. Fertilize after eat fruiting period so that the nutrient have time to be absorbed into the soil and the plant. Once per year is sufficient for plants that are grown in the ground, however, if in a pot, fertilizing two times per year is necessary. For best results, water with a seaweed solution each two weeks.

Soil?
Unlike most native plants, using a high-quality citrus soil is vital for the best results. The Finger Lime is a citrus species, and is related to Lemons, Oranges and other traditional citrus species, so treating them similar gives the best results.

Pruning?
Pruning Finger Limes isn't necessary except for aesthetic purposes.

Common Problems for Finger Limes:
Citrus Pests: scale, bronze orange bug, aphids, mealybugs, citrus leafminer and caterpillars. Treat using neem oil, with multiple applications needed every week or two. The oil will suffocate the insects which suck nutrients from the stems of new and old grow, causing a severe deterioration in plant health and production.

Finger limes are a unique citrus fruit native to Australia, known for their distinctive caviar-like pearls. They come in various flavours and have several culinary uses. Here's a rundown:

Flavours:

Tangy Citrus: Finger limes have a tangy, citrusy flavour, similar to traditional limes but often more intense and with a hint of bitterness.
Vibrant Colours: They come in a range of colours, from green to red or even black. The colour can influence the taste, with riper fruits often being sweeter.

Uses:

Garnish: Finger limes make an excellent garnish for both sweet and savoury dishes. Their unique texture and burst of citrus flavour can enhance the presentation of a dish.

Seafood: They pair well with seafood, especially oysters and sushi. The tiny pearls add a burst of freshness and acidity to the dish.

Salads: Sprinkle finger lime pearls on salads to give them a zesty twist. They work beautifully with greens and vinaigrettes.

Cocktails: These limes are perfect for cocktails, adding a burst of flavour to drinks like martinis, margaritas, and mojitos.

Desserts: Use finger limes in desserts, such as tarts, sorbets, or fruit salads, to add a citrusy kick.

Jams and Marmalades: They can be used to make unique jams and marmalades, spreading that distinctive citrus flavour.

Pickles: You can pickle finger limes for a tangy condiment that works well with various dishes.

Chutneys: Incorporate them into chutneys and relishes to add a refreshing element.

Sauces: Use finger limes in sauces, such as for grilled meats or seafood, to give your dishes a zing.

Baking: Incorporate the zest or pearls of finger limes into baking recipes, such as cakes, muffins, and cookies, for a surprising twist.