Kaffer 'Kieffer' Lime Tree

Kieffer lime, also called makrut or kaffir lime, is Citrus hystrix, an evergreen citrus valued for aromatic leaves and intensely flavored fruit. Leaves and fruit are traditional ingredients in Lao and Thai cooking, where their concentrated aroma seasons curries and other dishes. ## Foliage and fruit The [USDA National Organic Standards Board document](https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/packetnm.pdf) records the common names and culinary use. The [UC Riverside Citrus Variety Collection](https://citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc3103) describes the scent of crushed leaflets. Fruit is very sour and strongly flavored, so it is generally used as seasoning rather than eaten fresh. ## Siting and size Provide full sun or very bright light and a well-drained citrus mix. A [Citrus hystrix grower sheet](https://growersoutlet.com/Plant_Info/Edibles/Citrus/Citrus_hystrix.pdf) gives USDA zones 10-12, says container culture is possible, and reports a broad 6 to 25 foot height range. A pot and selective pruning help maintain a smaller tree; protect it from cold outside its warm range. ## Maintenance Water when the top 3 inches of mix have dried, and feed during active growth with citrus fertilizer. Harvest leaves as needed without stripping branches, and prune dead or crossing growth to keep the canopy accessible.