Kaffir Lime

The kaffir lime, also called makrut lime, is grown mostly for its leaves. The glossy, double leaves have a strong citrus fragrance and are an essential ingredient in Thai curries, soups and stir fries. The bumpy green fruit has little juice, but its zest is used in curry pastes.

A tree by the back door gives you fresh leaves whenever you cook. It is compact and grows well in a large pot or the garden, in full sun or light shade with soil that drains well. Water regularly and feed with a citrus fertiliser in spring and late summer. Pick leaves as you need them; it keeps the tree bushy.