Name: Makrut (Kaffir) Thai Lime Tree | Aromatic Leaf Citrus
Availability: InStock

Description

Makrut Lime (often called Kaffir Thai Lime) is a unique citrus grown first and foremost for its intensely aromatic leaves. These glossy, double-lobed leaves are a cornerstone of Thai, Lao, and Southeast Asian cooking, lending unmistakable fragrance to curries, soups, stir-fries, and sauces.

While the fruit is rarely used for juice, it is highly aromatic, with a rough, bumpy rind prized for zest in traditional cuisine. The tree itself is compact, attractive, and responds very well to container growing, making it an excellent choice for home cooks who want fresh leaves on demand.

Overview

Grown primarily for its aromatic culinary leaves.
Leaves are essential in Thai and Southeast Asian dishes.
Fruit is extremely fragrant; zest used sparingly.
Compact growth habit ideal for containers.
Self-fertile.

Growing Details

Latin Name: Citrus hystrix
Site and Soil: Full sun; well-drained soil
Rootstock: 1-gallon trees on Flying Dragon; larger sizes on C-35
Hardiness: Frost sensitive; mature trees may tolerate brief dips to approximately 30°F with protection
Bearing Age: Often fruits immediately; grafted trees may produce in their first season
Size at Maturity:
• Flying Dragon: Typically 6–8 ft tall and wide
• C-35: Typically 10–12 ft tall and wide
Note: Trees grown in containers remain smaller and are easily maintained with pruning.
Bloom Time: Spring to summer
Ripening Time: Fall to winter (fruit use is secondary to leaf harvest)
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Pests & Diseases: Similar to other citrus; good airflow and drainage reduce issues

Additional Notes

Grower’s Insight: Most growers harvest leaves regularly rather than waiting for fruit—fresh leaves are where this tree truly shines.
Regional Insight: Performs best in mild-winter regions; container growing allows easy protection in cooler climates.
Handling note: Thorns are part of the natural growth habit; gloves make pruning and leaf harvest easier.

Planting & Care

At a Glance – Makrut (Kaffir) Thai Lime

Sun: 3/4 day to full day of sun
Soil: Well-drained soil
Soil pH: Performs best between 5.5–6.5
Water: Moderate; consistent during establishment
Tree Size: Compact to medium, manageable with pruning
Pollination: Self-fertile
Harvest: Leaves year-round once established
Hardiness: Brief dips to ~30°F once established

Planting & Care – Makrut (Kaffir) Thai Lime

Site Selection

Choose a sunny location to encourage strong leaf production and aroma.
A warm, sheltered microclimate improves growth and cold resilience.
Good air movement helps maintain clean, healthy foliage.

Soil Preparation (In-Ground vs Container)

In-ground: Excellent drainage is key to long-term success. If soil holds water, planting on a mound or raised bed is beneficial.
In-ground: Slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5) supports nutrient availability and rich green leaf color.
Container: Use a fast-draining citrus mix in a pot with drainage holes.
Container: Container growing is often the easiest way to manage cold protection.

Planting Instructions

Dig a hole about twice the width of the root ball, or choose a container just larger than the root mass.
Set the tree so the root flare sits at or slightly above finished soil or potting mix.
Backfill gently and water thoroughly to settle.
Mulch lightly for in-ground plantings, keeping mulch away from the trunk.

Watering (In-Ground vs Container)

In-ground, establishment: Keep soil evenly moist while roots establish, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings.
In-ground, established: Deep, periodic watering encourages steady growth and leaf production.
Simple check: If soil feels dry 3–6″ below the surface, it’s time to water.
Container: Water thoroughly, then allow the top couple inches of mix to dry before watering again.
Goal: A healthy wet-to-dry rhythm supports strong roots and aromatic foliage.

Fertilizing

Citrus are heavy feeders, and Makrut Lime responds well to steady nutrition.
Simple approach: Apply a slow-release citrus fertilizer in early spring and again in early summer.
In-ground trees: Slow-release feeding supports consistent leaf growth without excessive softness.
Container trees: Lighter but more frequent feeding works well due to nutrient leaching.
Optional boost: Occasional liquid feeding during active growth can enhance leaf color and vigor.
Ease off feeding later in the season to help the tree harden before cooler weather.

Cold Care

Makrut Lime benefits from protection during freezing temperatures.
Young trees are more sensitive and appreciate extra care.
Container trees can be moved to a protected location during cold snaps.

Pruning & Harvest

Light pruning encourages bushy growth and fresh leaf production.
Harvest leaves as needed; regular harvesting promotes new growth.
Thorns are part of the natural habit—gloves make maintenance easier.

General Tips

Sun, drainage, and consistent feeding are the keys to success.
Once established, this tree provides a steady supply of fresh culinary leaves.

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