LightKaffir Lime grows best in bright, indirect light measuring…
WaterWater Kaffir Lime after the topsoil becomes dry to the…
ToxicityNot ASPCA-listed
Mature size5 m, with a spread of 3 to 4 ft / 0
Kaffir Lime is an evergreen citrus shrub grown indoors for its glossy, double leaves and strong citrus scent. Small, bumpy fruits may follow fragrant white flowers when care is suitable. The aromatic foliage is its main indoor attraction. This plant suits growers who can provide bright light, careful watering, and enough room for a compact shrub.
Care data checked 25 September 2026 · Dany · A-Z Plants
Light requirements
Kaffir Lime grows best in bright, indirect light measuring 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹.
Place it 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window.
The plant should not have a clear view of the sky. Filter unavoidable direct sun with a sheer curtain.
Too much light can scorch or bleach the glossy leaves. Too little light may limit growth, flowers, and fruit.
A PAR meter or PAR meter app can measure photosynthetically active radiation as PPFD (μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹).
Watering
Water Kaffir Lime after the topsoil becomes dry to the touch. Check with a finger before watering rather than following a fixed calendar. Growth slows during winter, so the mix will take longer to dry then.
Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
Pour water across the mix until it leaves the drainage holes. Let all excess drain before returning the pot to its saucer or decorative planter.
A container with drainage holes is essential. Constantly wet soil can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering considerably during the winter months. Prolonged dryness may cause wilted growth or crispy leaf edges.
Soil
Use a ready-made organic citrus potting mix that drains freely while holding some moisture. Dense soil can stay wet around the roots, so the container also needs open drainage holes.
For a DIY mix, combine 5 parts bark, 1 part coir, and 1 part pumice. Blend the ingredients evenly before potting.
Feeding
Apply an organic citrus fertiliser every 2 to 4 weeks from March through October. Use the label dilution because no separate strength is specified. Do not feed more often than directed, and pause during the lower-growth winter period.
Temperature & humidity
Keep Kaffir Lime between 60 to 85 °F / 16 to 29 °C. It prefers humidity within the 50 to 70% range. Keep conditions reasonably steady and protect the plant from sudden cold drafts or drying heat, which can stress the foliage.
What to expect
Allow 3 to 5 years for Kaffir Lime to mature indoors. Its eventual height is about 5 ft / 1.5 m, with a spread of 3 to 4 ft / 0.9 to 1.2 m. This maturity period gives it a steady, moderate pace in suitable conditions.
Varieties & cultivars
C. hystrix ‘Noto’: A compact cultivar suited to containers. It is valued for producing abundant foliage.
C. hystrix ‘Mae Ping’: This selection has larger leaves with a strong aroma and flavor.
C. hystrix ‘Ka Kaew’: A dwarf cultivar with smaller, rounder leaves. It is also known for prolific flowering.
Kaffir Lime: questions
Is Kaffir Lime toxic to cats and dogs?
The supplied safety information classifies Kaffir Lime as non-toxic to people and pets. No ASPCA listing is provided here, so there is no ASPCA safety ruling for this species. It…
How much light does Kaffir Lime need?
Kaffir Lime grows best in bright, indirect light measuring 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹. - Place it 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window. - The plant should not have a clear view of the sky. Filter unavoidable direct sun with a sheer curtain. - Too much light can scorch or bleach the…
How often should I water Kaffir Lime?
Water Kaffir Lime after the topsoil becomes dry to the touch. Check with a finger before watering rather than following a fixed calendar. Growth slows during winter, so the mix will take longer to dry then. - Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water. - Pour water…
How big does Kaffir Lime get?
Mature size indoors: 5 m, with a spread of 3 to 4 ft / 0.
