Key Lime (Citrus × aurantiifolia)

Citrus × aurantiifolia, commonly known as key lime or Mexican lime, is a small tropical citrus tree in the Rutaceae family. Believed to be native to Southeast Asia but widely cultivated in the Caribbean, Central America, and tropical regions, it produces small, greenish-yellow fruits with a distinctive tangy flavor. Traditionally, the fruit, juice, and zest have been used in culinary applications, beverages, and folk medicine for their digestive, antimicrobial, and vitamin C–rich properties. With its culinary, medicinal, and economic significance, Citrus × aurantiifolia remains an important species in tropical gardens, orchards, and global lime production.