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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Makrut Lime does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
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
Combine Makrut Lime with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Buying Makrut Lime
Plant Sale lists Makrut Lime as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
