Grown chiefly for its intensely aromatic double leaves used in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking, with knobbly fruit yielding fragrant zest. Compact and ideal for pots, it needs a warm, frost-free position.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Makrut Lime
Botanically, Citrus hystrix 'Makrut' is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rutaceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Makrut Lime
Makrut Lime suits tropical, subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Makrut Lime does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Makrut Lime is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Makrut Lime after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Makrut Lime in the garden
Makrut Lime earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Makrut Lime with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Makrut Lime
Plant Sale lists Makrut Lime as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.