Citrus australasica is an evergreen native shrub or small tree that originates from the tropical and subtropical regions of Eastern Australia.
It has a dense habit either as a shrub or broadly domed tree. Like many wild Citrus spp there are sharp spines along the branches.
The mid-green fragrant leaves are small, thick and leathery.
From late autumn to summer it produces small white fragrant flowers opening from pink buds.
The fruit is small and finger-like and varies in colour from green to brown, black and purple. Inside the fruit is filled with lots of small cavier-like juice sacs that also vary from yellow to green and pink.
Grows best in a wind protected area in full sun.
This is a plant that is becoming popular commercially because of its fruit. Chefs around the world use the fruit for decoration and its tangy flavour.
There are currently 5 finger lime cultivars:
Citrus australasica ‘Alstonville’,
Citrus australasica ‘Blunobia Pink Crystal’,
Citrus australasica ‘Durhams Emerald,
Citrus australasica ‘Judy’s Everbearing’
Citrus australasica ‘Pink Ice'.