Finger Lime Rainforest Pearl

• Native to the rainforests of Queensland and northern NSW, this unique citrus relative has been used by Indigenous Australians for thousands of years.
• Produces elongated fruits filled with tiny pearls that pop on the tongue, offering intense lime flavour highly sought after by top restaurants globally.
• Grows as a thorny shrub or small tree with glossy green leaves and small white flowers that appear throughout the warmer months.
• Highly valued for its drought tolerance once established and ability to fruit in partial shade, unlike most citrus varieties.
• Takes 3-4 years to begin fruiting from planting, but can continue producing for decades with proper care.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly during spring and summer, allowing soil to partially dry between waterings. Reduce to weekly in winter while maintaining soil moisture.
• Position in filtered sunlight or morning sun with afternoon protection, especially in hot Australian climates. Indoor plants need bright, indirect light near east-facing windows.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with compost and organic matter. Container plants require premium potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
• Feed monthly spring through summer with citrus fertiliser containing trace elements like zinc and iron. Apply quarterly in autumn and winter to maintain health.
• Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain shape and remove crossing branches, wearing gloves to protect from thorns. Remove suckers from the base regularly.
• Maintain humidity with organic mulch around outdoor plants or humidity trays for indoor specimens. Group with other plants to create beneficial microclimates.

• Provide filtered sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves and reduce fruit quality.
• Water regularly during growing season but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter while maintaining consistent moisture levels.
• Maintain humidity around the plant with mulching or grouping with other plants. Indoor plants benefit from humidity trays or regular misting.
• Feed monthly during spring and summer with citrus-specific fertiliser rich in trace elements. Reduce feeding to quarterly during autumn and winter months.
• Prune lightly after harvest to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Handle carefully as stems have small thorns.

• Scale insects can attach to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and weak growth. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap applied weekly until cleared.
• Citrus canker appears as brown spots on leaves and fruit, spreading in humid conditions. Remove affected parts immediately and improve air circulation around the plant.
• Root rot develops from waterlogged soil, causing leaf drop and stunted growth. Ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
• Aphids cluster on new growth, curling leaves and stunting development. Spray off with water or apply beneficial insects like ladybirds for natural control.