The Kaffir Lime Tree produces a lime that is a dark green, warty/bumpy fruit with leaves, zest (peel), and juice that's mainly used in Thai cooking; also used in Cambodian, and Indonesian cooking.  The green limes grow on a very thorny bush with aromatic and distinctively shaped "double" leaves.  These leaves are an essential ingredient for flavoring in many Asian dishes such as soups, curries and fish.  Sizes vary, but the average individual leaf is approx 2" long.  Lime leaves freeze well.

Being well suited to container growing, this citrus tree, reaching up to 5 feet tall, can be grown outdoors year round in zones 9-10.  The Kaffir Lime tree thrives in potted environments and does well when grown on the patio or deck; in colder climates it needs to be brought indoors during winter; very cold sensitive.  Its container needs adequate drainage, and this dwarf tree prefers full sun in moist soil.  This tree is prone to root rot if kept too wet, so it is best to allow the soil to dry out some between waterings.  Fertilize at the beginning of the growing season.  No pollinator needed.

If grown indoors, keep near a sunny window.  Trees are mildly frost hardy and grow best in areas that receive only short, mild frosts.  In most parts of Thailand, the Kaffir Lime is so beloved that almost every person's home in the countryside has at least one tree growing in their yard.