A compact bush with a dense growth, commonly named Finger or Caviar Lime with narrow shaped fragrant leaves and a different appearance to the usual more available beautiful Mediterranean citrus.

The Finger Lime should be kept in a pot as it needs winter protection such as a cool but frost-free greenhouse or saving that, a winter plant cover.

The small finger shaped fruit forms from the creamy white flowers and are protected by spiky thorns. When opening the ripe fruit, the flesh inside is like a cluster of small pearl-shaped pearl fruit with a delicious zingy citrus flavour.

Chefs around the world seem to love the fruit in their recipes so maybe you can have a practice at home.

Cultivation: Protection in winter

Soil: Well drained John Innes No 3, failing that No 2. Added grit or stone.

Position: Full sun and sheltered position

Foliage: Evergreen

Fruit: Finger shape with pearl shaped citrus flavoured flesh

Flowering: Creamy white blossom

Habit: Dense & compact

Hardiness: Not fully hardy

Growth: Average

Benefits to Wildlife: Bees

Did you know:

Citrus australasica is a native of Australia and the rain forests of Queensland and New South Wales.