Explore the Knowledgebase
Choose a topic to dive deep into the world of kaffir lime. Each section provides comprehensive, well-researched information on every aspect of Citrus hystrix.
Botany & Taxonomy
Scientific classification, physical description, unique leaf structure, and native habitat of Citrus hystrix.
3 sections →Cultivation Guide
Complete growing guide: soil, water, light, propagation methods, indoor growing, and pest management.
6 sections →Health & Nutrition
Nutritional profile, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and evidence-based health benefits.
5 sections →Culinary Uses & Recipes
Cooking techniques, classic Southeast Asian recipes, beverages, preserves, and flavor pairings.
5 sections →Medicine & Aromatherapy
Traditional medicine systems, essential oil guide, skincare, insect repellent, and natural cleaning.
5 sections →Culture & History
Cultural significance, etymology, naming controversies, myths, folklore, and fun facts.
4 sections →Reference & FAQ
Varieties, storage tips, substitutes, growing zones, comparison charts, and frequently asked questions.
10+ sections →Photo Gallery
Visual journey through the world of kaffir lime — from tree to table, with Wikimedia Commons images.
8 images →Printable Recipe Book
85+ authentic Southeast Asian recipes in a print-ready format. Download the PDF or print directly from your browser.
85+ recipes · PDF →Download PDF
Get the complete recipe book as a PDF file. 85+ recipes from 6 cuisines — ready to print or save offline.
4.2 MB · Download →Quick Overview
The kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix), also widely known as the makrut lime, is a citrus fruit native to tropical Southeast Asia. It is one of the most aromatic and distinctive members of the citrus family, prized not primarily for its juice but for its intensely fragrant leaves and bumpy rind.
Images: Thai lime by James Steakley (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Daun Jeruk by Herusutimbul (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Fruit
Small, bumpy, and dark green with a distinctive wrinkled appearance. The rind is thick and intensely aromatic, while the juice is sparingly used due to extreme acidity.
The Leaves
Double-lobed (unifoliate) leaves with an intoxicating citrus fragrance. Considered one of the most essential herbs in Southeast Asian cooking.
The Tree
A thorny evergreen that grows 2–11 meters tall. Compact and well-suited to container growing, making it accessible to home gardeners worldwide.
Cultural Impact
Central to the cuisines of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, and beyond. Also used in traditional medicine and aromatherapy.
📝 Note on Naming
The term "kaffir" is considered offensive in parts of Southern Africa. Many botanical gardens and publications now prefer "makrut lime" (from the Thai word มะกรูด, ma-grut). This knowledgebase uses both terms for comprehensibility.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Citrus hystrix DC. |
| Family | Rutaceae (Citrus family) |
| Native Region | Tropical Southeast Asia |
| Tree Height | 2–11 meters |
| Fruit Size | 3–4 cm diameter |
| Primary Uses | Leaves, rind, essential oil |
| Flavor Profile | Intense citrus-floral, aromatic |
| USDA Zones | 10b–11 (container elsewhere) |
| Time to Fruit | 1–5 years (method dependent) |
| Vitamin C | 53 mg per 100g (59% DV) |