Rainforest Pearl Finger Lime

Rainforest Pearl Finger Lime (Citrus australasica 'Rainforest Pearl') is an early commercial finger lime selection, vigorous and productive, with green skin and pink pearls. It grows as a thorny, bushy tree of about 3 to 4m and bridges the classic green finger lime and the coloured varieties in one plant.

Why you'll love it

• Green skin, pink pearls. Cut the green finger open and the pearls inside are pink, a lovely contrast on a plate.
• Vigorous grower. It is known as a strong, productive selection, so it fills out faster than many other finger limes.
• Early commercial selection. It was among the first finger limes grown for market, so it has a long record of performing well.
• Native understorey tree. It tolerates filtered light and a sheltered position better than other citrus.
• Pot friendly. Happy in a large container on a patio or balcony.

Where it works best

Edible hedge. Its vigour suits a loose, thorny barrier. Plant 2m apart for an edible screen that also deters wandering feet.

Kitchen garden. A convenient fruit source near the back door for garnish and cooking.

Large pot. A 50cm pot with citrus mix keeps it manageable and portable.

Growing Rainforest Pearl Finger Lime in Australia

Position and climate. Morning sun or filtered light, sheltered from wind and harsh afternoon sun. It does well in subtropical and warm temperate gardens. Elsewhere, grow it in a pot and protect it from frost.

Soil. Free-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil is ideal. Raise the bed if your soil drains poorly.

Water and feed. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy and feed with a citrus fertiliser in spring and summer. Mulch the root zone.

Pruning. Light pruning after harvest to shape the plant and remove dead wood. The thorns are sharp, so wear gloves. Watch for citrus leaf miner on young leaves.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Rainforest Pearl Finger Lime in 400mm pots, advanced stock that is well established and ready to plant. Water it in thoroughly and keep it moist during its first season. 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

• Citrus and fruit
• Growing citrus in your backyard
• Australian native plants

Common questions

What colour is the fruit?

Green skin with pink pearls inside.

Is it vigorous?

Yes. It is regarded as a vigorous selection, so give it space and prune lightly to keep it in shape.

Does it need protecting from frost?

Young plants benefit from protection in frosty areas, and in cool climates a pot that can be moved is the safest choice.