Two recently released University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) varieties of finger limes were introduced at a virtual Finger Lime Symposium held in March. Manjul Dutt of the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center hosted the symposium; he also introduced the new varieties.
Lourdes Pérez Cordero, UF/IFAS Extension agent in Highlands County, reported on the new varieties and the symposium in the May/June issue of the Central Florida Extension newsletter. The new varieties are UF SunLime and the UF RedLime.
UF SunLime produces relatively large fruit that are a rich red color when mature. The immature fruit are a darker purplish color. This attractive appearance is an added benefit for the potential of this crop in the fresh market. The fruit’s average weight ranges between 26.14 grams and 34.66 grams. The fruit have an average length of 2.8 to 3 inches. The main bloom occurs in February and March; however, trees do flower throughout the year. This variety is tolerant to HLB but is susceptible to citrus scab.
UF RedLime fruit’s average weight ranges between 18.72 grams and 24.10 grams. The fruit have an average length of 2.91 to 3.92 inches. Similar to UF SunLime, this variety blooms between February and March with sporadic blooms throughout the year. The trees of this variety can grow up to 8 feet in height after a couple of years, while the UF SunLime remains smaller. Because of RedLime’s thorny nature, fruit are prone to thorn damage.
Those interested in ordering the UF-released varieties of finger limes can contact Phillip Rucks Citrus Nursery, Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery and Southern Citrus Nurseries.
Want to learn more? Presentations and videos from the Finger Lime Symposium can be found here.
Source: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
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