Pink Ice Finger Lime

Pink Ice Finger Lime (Citrus australasica 'Pink Ice') is a selected finger lime with reddish-brown skin and clear to pale pink pearls. It grows as a bushy, thorny small tree of about 3m and gives the same crisp, tangy citrus caviar as the species, in a more colourful package.

Why you'll love it

• Pink pearls. The vesicles run from clear to pale pink, so a spoonful over seafood or a drink adds both flavour and colour.
• Reddish-brown skin. The fruit hangs like slim bronze fingers among tiny dark green leaves, an attractive sight when it is cropping.
• Native citrus. It descends from a rainforest-margin species, so it copes with filtered light that other citrus resent.
• Container friendly. It is happy in a pot, so it suits balconies, patios and sheltered courtyards.
• Bee friendly. Its small white spring flowers feed native bees.

Where it works best

Kitchen garden. Plant it within reach of the house so you can pick fruit for the table. Allow 2m between plants for an edible screen.

Feature pot. A 40cm or larger glazed pot with free-draining citrus mix makes an eye-catching patio plant.

Protected beds. Place it where it gets morning sun and shelter from wind and the hottest afternoon rays.

Growing Pink Ice Finger Lime in Australia

Position and climate. Morning sun or bright filtered light is best. It suits subtropical and warm temperate gardens, and in cooler areas it does well in a pot that can be moved for winter. Young plants need frost protection.

Soil. It wants free-draining soil rich in organic matter, slightly acidic. Raised beds help where clay is heavy.

Water and feed. Water regularly so the soil is moist but not wet, and feed with a citrus fertiliser through the growing season. Mulch to keep the roots cool.

Pruning. Prune lightly after fruiting to shape and remove dead wood. The branches are thorny, so gloves are advisable. Watch new growth for citrus leaf miner.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Pink Ice Finger Lime in 200mm pots in packs of 6, and as 100 litre bags, which are advanced specimen stock for gardeners who want an established tree. Plant it promptly, water it in well and allow a season of settling before a good harvest. Our growers do not hold every size all year, so a size can show as on backorder at times. An order for a backorder size is confirmed with you before anything ships.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• More citrus and fruit
• Growing citrus trees in your backyard
• Plants for pots

Common questions

How is it different from the green finger lime?

The fruit has reddish-brown skin and clear to pale pink pearls, where the species has green skin. Growth and care are the same.

Can I grow it in a pot?

Yes. Use a free-draining citrus mix, feed regularly and keep it out of harsh afternoon sun.

Is it thorny?

Yes, so plant it away from paths and wear gloves to prune and pick.