Desert Lime Seeds

DESERT LIME Native Seeds

Botanical Name: Citrus glauca
Other Names: Desert Lime, Outback Lime, Australian Native Lime

• Hardy Australian native shrub producing small, tangy limes prized for culinary use.
• Highly drought-tolerant, thriving in arid and semi-arid regions.
• Compact growth habit makes it ideal for hedges, containers, and bush gardens.
• Produces clusters of fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators.
• Excellent for erosion control, soil stabilization, and revegetation projects.
• Leaves and fruit traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for food and medicinal purposes.
• Provides habitat and food for birds and beneficial insects.

Plant Details

• Plant Type: Evergreen native shrub / small tree
• Plant Height: 2–5 m tall

Sowing Information

• Germination: 3–6 weeks
• Depth: Surface sow; press lightly into soil
• Position: Full sun to part shade
• Sow Where: Seed trays or tubes; transplant when seedlings are strong
• Soil Type: Well-draining soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils
• Spacing: 2–4 m between plants

Growing Tips

• Water regularly during establishment, then reduce to drought-tolerant levels.
• Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots from heat.
• Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.
• Suitable for arid gardens, bushfood plantings, and wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Flowering & Fruiting

Desert Lime produces small, fragrant white flowers in spring and summer, followed by tiny, intensely flavoured limes that can be harvested when green or fully ripe.

Traditional & Practical Uses

• Fruits and leaves traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for cooking and medicinal purposes.
• Used in gourmet food products, preserves, sauces, and beverages.
• Planted for arid landscaping, bushfood gardens, and habitat restoration.

When to Sow Desert Lime in Your Climate