Citrus australasica (Microcitrus australasica)

The Finger Lime tree (Citrus australasica) is a fabulously unusual citrus. When cracked open, the fruit releases a multitude of tiny, round juice vesicles that resemble caviar - hence its common names, Lime Caviar or Citrus Caviar. These delicate spheres separate cleanly from one another and burst with an intense sweet-tart lemon-lime flavour. The juice-filled pearls range from clear greenish to yellow in colour (though this can vary) and are wonderful added to salads, used as a garnish, or paired with seafood, cocktails, and desserts. ‘Foodies’ will especially appreciate how finger lime “caviar” instantly elevates a dish, giving it the look of boutique, five-star cuisine.

Each fruit is dark purple and about 7.5 cm (3 in) long, with a slender, finger-like shape - hence the name Finger Lime. The skin is thin and rough, dotted with numerous oil glands, and can be dried and used as a spice. Native to Australia, these trees typically begin bearing fruit within 1–2 years after planting, with fruit ripening from late autumn into winter.

Australian Finger Lime grows as a small, thorny tree or shrub and is grafted onto Flying Dragon rootstock, which keeps plants under 6 feet tall and encourages early fruit production. Hardy to Zone 10a (–1.1 °C), Microcitrus australasica must be grown in a container and brought indoors in fall before any chance of frost. Place the Finger Lime tree in a sunny, warm location and ensure the soil remains moist but well drained.

Deliciously fragrant, creamy-white flowers usually bloom in spring. They are self-fertile and highly attractive to pollinators. If the tree flowers while indoors, you can assist fruit set by gently transferring pollen from flower to flower with a small brush. The leaves are small and glossy green, the branches are dense and thorny, and—like other citrus—the foliage is aromatic when crushed.

During the warm months, move your Lime Caviar plant outdoors to a sunny, warm spot where you can enjoy its fragrant blooms. It is sure to become a striking and conversation-starting addition to your garden or patio.