Kaffir Lime

the tree/shrub in my backyard of the kaffir tree

the kaffir line tree is one of the most awesome trees to have. it has a very strong citric smell to it when you rub the leaves together in your fingers and the scent is very strong. this tree or shrub, has been here since we moved in and the previous owners use to use it as well and loved it and now it has been left to us.we like to use it in your spicy foods and the different asian curry's we make at home, only adding a few washed leaves into the pot.

the hourglass looking leaves

It is known as Citrus hystrix from the Rutaceae family. It is known to flower in the season of summer and gives white flowers. It is also an evergreen and does have thorns, so be aware of them. the leaves on this particular plant is quite unique. it is seen to have two leaves stuck together or an hour-glass shape. the plant also gives of fruit, lemoned shaped and bumpy, making it seem like a wrinkly lime.

the many sharp thorns along the stems

It is pretty good against salt and it is sort of a fast growing plant. it does not do well in drought conditions or being overly watered and does not prefer compacted soils.

This is a very good tree for cooking, especially cooking asian foods with and is very nicely scented as a tree.

:)