Citrus inodora – Russell River Lime (plant) QLD ONLY!

Description

Citrus inodora is native to the rainforests of North Queensland. Known only from the eastern foothills of the Bellenden Ker Range – Mt Bartle Frere area and also from the Cape Tribulation area. Altitudinal range from near sea level to 120m. Russell River Lime grow as an understory plant in undisturbed, well-developed lowland rain forest. It is closely related to the finger lime (Citrus australasica) of N NSW and SE Qld. The specific name inodora derives from the Latin word for no smell, inodorus, named so because the flowers are unscented, which is untypical of Citrus. C. inodora has unusual stipular double spines. 

Citrus inodora is fairly fast from seed to fruiting (typically 3-5 years), which makes it useful for breeding programs. The fruit is elongated and has longitudinal ribs, turning from green to a sunshine yellow on ripening. The vesicles are similar to finger lime, but a bit more angular. A lemon taste with a slight bitterness, similar to grapefruit.

Care and Cultivation of Citrus inodora

Russell River limes like a part shade position with adequate moisture and regular fertiliser, just like normal Citrus. Easy to care for once established.

1 plant (seed grown, open pollinated, 50-100mm tall) Shipped within Queensland only because of Citrus Tristeza Virus restrictions, see here.