Botanic Gardens Trust, Sydney, Australia

 

Citrus australasica

The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan - February

Common name finger lime
Scientific name Citrus australasica F.Muell.
Family  Rutaceae
Etymology

Genus: Greek, citrus, the Latin name for the citron.

Species: Australian.

Distribution

Occurs in south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales.

Native habitat Rainforest.
Description A medium to large shrub or small tree.
Flowering/fruiting White or pale pink flowers appear in late summer and autumn. These are followed by edible, elongated fruits which ripen in winter through to spring.

Location in Garden

You can find it in the Fruit Loop where we display plants which are used in some way by Australians.

 

It is hardy in tropical to temperate climates in well drained conditions. Plants are usually slow growing and seedlings may take from 5 to 15 years to reach maturity. The stems are protected with vicious thorns, wearing gloves and long sleeves is recommended when harvesting fruit.

The fruit may be green, yellow, black, purple or red with green, yellow or pink pulp and has recently become popular as a gourmet bush food.

 

Citrus australasica, image by Tracey Armstrong

Citrus australasica, image by Tracey Armstrong

Citrus australasica, image by Tracey Armstrong

 

 

 

 

^Back To Top
Web CMS by Squiz