Citrus aurantifolia
Light: Full sun for best fruiting; afternoon shade is beneficial in Phoenix, especially for young trees during extreme summer heat.
Water: Water deeply, wetting soil 2–3 feet deep around established trees, then allow the upper few inches to dry. Water more frequently during summer and less in winter; avoid constantly wet soil.
Soil: Well-drained soil; sandy loam preferred. Tolerates Phoenix’s alkaline soils but may develop micronutrient deficiencies. Keep the root flare above grade and avoid poorly drained planting sites.
Mature size: Typically 10–15 feet tall and 8–15 feet wide; size varies with rootstock, pruning, and growing conditions.
Bloom: Main bloom occurs in spring, with additional flowering possible during warm weather. Fruit generally ripens about 4–6 months after flowering.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen; may shed leaves after frost, drought, or other stress.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast with adequate warmth, irrigation, and citrus fertilizer.