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Citrus aurantium, Citrus depressa, Citrus hystrix, Citrus medica, Citrus × acida, Citrus × aurantiifolia, Citrus × davaoensis, Citrus × excelsa, Citrus × javanica, Citrus × lima, Citrus × limettioides, Citrus × limonellus, Citrus × macrophylla, Citrus × montana, Citrus × nipis, Citrus × notissima, Citrus × papaya, Citrus × pseudolimonum, Citrus × spinosissima, Citrus × voangasay, Citrus × webberi, Limonia × aurantiifolia
Key lime, lime tree
The Key lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) is a citrus species with a globose fruit, 2.5–5 cm in diameter (1–2 in), that is yellow when ripe but usually picked green commercially. It is smaller and seedier, with a higher acidity, a stronger aroma, and a thinner rind, than that of the Persian lime (Citrus × latifolia). It is valued for its unique flavor compared to other limes, with the Key lime usually having a more tart and bitter flavor. The name comes from its association with the Florida Keys, where it is best known as the flavoring ingredient in Key lime pie. It is also known as West Indian lime, bartender’s lime, Omani lime, or Mexican lime, the last classified as a distinct race with a thicker skin and darker green color. Philippine varieties have various names, including dayap and bilolo.
Citrus aurantiifolia, also known as lime or sour lime, is a small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. In Qatar, it has been cultivated and naturalized in some areas. Research has shown that C. aurantiifolia is grown in Qatari farms and home gardens for its fruit, which is used locally for culinary and medicinal purposes. The plant thrives in Qatar's warm and dry climate, with some studies suggesting its potential as a drought-tolerant crop for the region. However, its growth may be limited by Qatar's high soil salinity and extreme temperatures. Overall, C. aurantiifolia is a valuable crop in Qatar, providing a source of fresh fruit and contributing to the country's food security and agricultural diversity.
Lime tree (Citrus aurantiifolia?) on Umm Wishad Street in Musheirib area. Doha, Qatar, March 14, 2014
Umm Wishad Street, Doha, Qatar
Green limes on a citrus tree (Citrus aurantiifolia?) in area of Al Istiqlal Street in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, May 5, 2014Al Istiqlal Street, Doha, QatarObservations of Citrus aurantiifolia in Qatar revealed the presence of lime trees in various areas of Doha. On Umm Wishad Street in Musheirib, a lime tree was spotted on March 14, 2014. Another sighting occurred on May 5, 2014, in the area of Al Istiqlal Street in West Bay, where green limes were seen on a citrus tree. The trees were able to thrive in Qatar's environment, with the limes remaining green, suggesting that they may not have received enough sunlight or warmth to ripen. The sightings indicate that Citrus aurantiifolia can be found in urban areas of Doha, including Musheirib and West Bay. The ability of these trees to grow in Qatar's climate suggests a level of adaptability and hardiness. Overall, the observations provide insight into the presence and growth of Citrus aurantiifolia in Qatar's urban environment.
www.theplantlist.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.