Desert Lime
Origin of name
Family: RUTACEAE
- Citrus derived from Latin for citrus plants
- glauca meaning “grey-green“
Occurrence
NOT a local plant – occurs in arid/semi-arid areas west from Bowen to Longreach, south to Dubbo and west to Quorn, SA.
Requires drier climate, full sun, good drainage. Tolerates a range of soil types, heat (~45°C), frost, salinity and drought. Responds to citrus fertiliser and fish emulsion.
Appearance
Small tree (4-12m). Leaves narrow, grey-green, oblong, with prominent oil glands. Leaves can drop in the dry. White flowers (Jul-Sep) lead to round, pale green-yellow fruit (~2cm), sometimes seedless. Stems have a covering of sharp thorns, to browse height of large kangaroos.
Suited to large, drained pot. Needs little pruning (none for 1st 5 years). Bears many fruit in good conditions.
