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Holly's Homestead — Citrus Tree

Finger Lime

Citrus australasica · Rue family, native to Australia
DIFFICULTY Moderate
TYPE Evergreen perennial shrub, native to Australia
MATURITY 3–4 years to first fruit
Sun
Full–part sun
Water
Regular
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
Spacing
2–3m
Depth
graft union above soil

01Australian native citrus

Finger lime is native to the rainforest understorey of eastern Australia, so unlike other citrus it actually tolerates part shade well and prefers slightly more humidity.

02Planting

Method
Plant with the graft union above soil level.
Soil
Well-drained, slightly acidic, appreciates extra organic matter.
Timing
Plant in spring, in a sheltered spot.

03Growing care

  • Tolerates part shade better than other citrus — useful under taller trees.
  • Water regularly; likes slightly more consistent moisture than other citrus.
  • Feed lightly with a citrus fertiliser.
  • Protect from strong, drying wind.

04Problems

  • Citrus leaf miner — prune affected tips.
  • Gall wasp — prune out before spring.
  • Fruit fly — net or bag developing fruit.
  • Sunburn on exposed fruit — dappled shade often suits it better than full baking sun.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Fruit is full length and colour for the variety, slightly soft.
Method
Cut or twist from the stem.
Curing
None needed.
Storage
Fridge, 1–2 weeks.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
Native groundcoversComfrey
Avoid nearby
Full, harsh sun exposure
Rotation note
Not applicable — perennial shrub.