Wholesale Lime Peel

01.
A Bit of Botany

a little botanical information on lime peel

description
Small tropical evergreen tree that may reach up to 15 feet in height at maturity, with a width of 6-10 feet. It tends to form a rounded canopy and twisted branches. The leathery, oblong-shaped leaves are glossy in appearance and slightly purple when young, maturing to a dark green color. They are fragrant when bruised. Flowers are white and fragrant. The small, round, edible fruits ripen from yellow to green. A mature tree can produce up to 50 pounds of limes each year.

common names
& nomenclature
Key Lime, Mexican Lime, Thornless Key Lime

02.
Cultivation & Harvesting

considerations for growing and harvesting lime peel

Key lime requires full sun and protection from wind. It will not tolerate shade, poor drainage, heavy soil or saline conditions, and it is frost tender. The tree is propagated from seed, grafting and root cuttings. Suitable for USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9-11.

03.
The Rest of the Story

key lime peel history, folklore, literature & more

Although this tree is indigenous to Malaysia and Indonesia, and distributed throughout other tropical parts of the world, heavy cultivation in the Florida Keys in the 1800s gave rise to the name “Key lime.” It may be best known as the star ingredient of classic Key Lime Pie, and as a companion to coarse salt clinging to the rim of a Margarita glass.

Key lime is generally preferred over other varieties of lime because it is more acidic, which equates to better flavor and aroma. It also has fewer seeds and a thinner rind.

Dried lime peel gives beverages a tart, citrusy, acidic flavor. It is used in beermaking and in tea blending. Key lime peel pairs especially well with green and black teas, as well as with dried fruits and flowers.

04.
Where in the World

habitat and range for lime peel

Key lime is native to southeastern Asia but is now distributed via cultivation in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of Europe, India, China, Mexico, South America and in North America, most notably in Florida.