Edible Plants of the World

Australian Desert Lime, Native Cumquat, Australian desert kumquat

A tropical plant. It occurs naturally in the semi arid regions of Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia in Australia. It is very drought tolerant. It can stand extremes of temperature from 45°C to -24°C. It grows on a wide range of soil types. The soils need to be well drained. It suits hardiness zones 9-12.

Synonyms

Edible Portion

Where does Australian Desert Lime grow?

Found in: Australia, Pacific

Status: It is now cultivated commercially.

Growing Australian Desert Lime, Native Cumquat, Australian desert kumquat

Cultivation: Plants can be grown from seed, stem cuttings, root cuttings, suckers or budding. If trees are disturbed they easily form suckers that can be removed and planted.

Edible Uses: The fruit can be used whole in cooking. They are also used for drinks, jams and preserves. It can be used for marmalade, sauces and dressings.

Production: It is 10-12 weeks between flowering and fruit maturity. A fruit weighs 1-3 g. Trees flower mostly in spring and fruit is ripe in summer.

Nutrition Info

per 100g edible portion

Edible Part Energy (kcal) Protein (g) Iron (mg) Vitamin A (ug) Vitamin c (mg) Zinc (mg) % Water
- - - - - -

References

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Martin, F. W., et al, 1987, Perennial Edible Fruits of the Tropics. USDA Handbook 642 p 74 (As Eremocitrus glauca)

McKerney, M. & White, H., 2011, Bush Tucker, Boomerangs & Bandages. Border River-Gwyder Catchment Management Authority p 125

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World Checklist of Useful Plant Species 2020. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew