LIME BERRY

Written by Tara Rao

Lime Berry or Limoncillo is a specie of the family:Rutaceae and in scientific classification as Triphasia Trifolia.Lime berry is also called Elachi Lemon, Chinese Lemon, but the preferred name is Lime Berry.

Origin:its probably native to Java ,Indonesia, Surinam and Puerto Rico.It grows well in Malaysia ,Christmas Island, Florida and Texas Actually it grows well in tropical to subtropical regions

Description:It is a member of the Rutacae (citrus)family.It is a spiny evergreen shrub.Maximum height is upto 9feet.It has trifoliate dark green leaves of 2cm to 4cm long and 1.5cm to 2cm broad.It bears small white fragrant flowers and the petals are 10 mm to 13mm long and 4mm breadfruit when ripe are dullish red or crimson and globes in shape. Each fruit has 1to 3 seeds.

Plant type:It is a perennial plant produces fruits throughout the year. It is seed propagated, but the seed should be planted before it dries up.It is a good ornamental plant ,ideal as a hedge since its thick and dense.

Soil:This plant grows in full sun to part shade.As a young plant it does not tolerate frost.The soil should be moderately loamy,with a generous amount of compost and sand.It prefers dry rocky soil in a sunny spot. It is intolerant to water logging and dislikes winter wetness.

Bonsai :Due to its slow growth it is excellent for Bonsai.The wood is very dense ,it can be easily defoilated which makes wiring easier Once wiring is done the new shoot will come out easily Repotting should be done in the summer months. This plant is resistant to most pests.

On the bonsai video I saw seeds planted in the ground in a single file ,allowed to grow till 2feet and maintained for the stem to thicken.Then its ideal for forest style..and looks impressive!!However formal upright seems to be the most suitable style.

Medicinal:Fresh leaves are crushed and applied on the scalp for dandruff, the fruit cooked in water and sugar is a remedy for bad cough and to loosen the phlegm. Leaves are aromatic and made into bath salts

The lime berry is an ideal tropical plant for hot humid Chennai conditions .Its a beautiful ornamental plant ,slow growing, but easy to maintain.