Desert Lime are a rare, native citrus species that produces sweet, piquant lime flavoured fruit which are slightly bitter, and are yellow when fully ripe. They grow in the arid interior grasslands of Australia and have been eaten by Indigenous Australians for their nutritious fruit which appear during the summer time.

Each plant is aged 2-3 years old, between 25cm and 50cm. Let the plant adjust for at least a week in a sheltered spot before planting.

Their size is about 2 metres (average) - can be kept shorter in pots with regular pruning. These trees are grafted onto a troyer citrus rootstock.

Find your climate zone here.

Provide a thorough watering in spring before new leaves emerge, followed by a weekly watering routine during the budding season to maintain soil moisture.

Be cautious not to overwater, as desert lime plants are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soil.

Dig a hole 2 to 3 times the size of the Desert Lime Tube. Break up the soil in the base of the planting hole and mix in compost and slow release fertilizer. Lower the tree into the planting hole ensuring the soil level of the plant is the same level of the soil prior to excavation. Water well with a solution of seaweed or other soil conditioners.

Use a commercial potting mix and avoid excessive use of animal manure and commercial organic fertilizers - they are hardy and grow excellent in pots.

Plant in a full-sun position. Fertilize in spring and summer with a general citrus fertilizer. Folio feed is also recommended.

Desert Lime are a rare, native citrus species that produces sweet, piquant lime flavoured fruit which are slightly bitter, and are yellow when fully ripe.

You can eat it whole or as an ingredient to achieve that tangy twist in your culinary creations.