Rangpur lime, Mandarin lime
Citrus limonia

Family: Rutaceae

What it is like

It is probably a natural hybrid between lemon and mandarin. A small tree. It has many branches and thorns. It grows 6 m high. The flowers are white with a pink tinge and are fragrant. The fruit are round and very acid. They become deep orange when ripe. The fruit contain 7 segments. These separate easily. There are some named cultivated varieties.

There are 20 Citrus species. Several hybrids have been formed.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It can tolerate some frost. It can tolerate salt and high pH. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, East Africa, Egypt, Fiji, Hawaii, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Mediterranean, Middle East, Niue, North Africa, North America, Pacific, Palestine, Peru, SE Asia, South America, Tanzania, USA, Vietnam, West Indies

How it is used for food

The fruit are used to make marmalade. The juice is used to sour foods.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Lemandarin, Limeng, Limon dulce, Mlimao

Synonyms

Probably Citrus limon x Citrus reticulata; Citrus limonum Risso;