Persian Lime
Citrus × latifolia
Persian Lime
Status: Active
Location: Chesed Ranch Orchard
Planted: 2026
Source: Pat’s Nursery
Tree ID: CR-CIT-002, CR-CIT-003
Location in Orchard:
- Row 2 – Tree 1
- Row 3 – Tree 2
A Family Favorite
Some trees are planted for experimentation.
Some are planted for production.
And some are planted because the family simply loves the fruit.
The Persian Lime falls firmly into that last category.
Michelle has always loved fresh limes, and having a reliable supply available just steps from the house was considered essential when rebuilding the orchard. Whether used in cooking, drinks, marinades, desserts, or simply squeezed over fresh food, limes have become a staple ingredient in our kitchen.
Because of that, one Persian Lime tree wasn’t enough.
Two trees were planted to help ensure a consistent supply of fruit for years to come.
Learning From the Past
The Persian Lime also serves as a reminder of the challenges of growing citrus in North Florida.
Prior to the winter of 2025–2026, Chesed Ranch had several mature citrus trees that had become established and productive members of the orchard. During that historic freeze, every mature citrus tree on the property was lost.
The experience reinforced the importance of variety selection, cold protection, and maintaining realistic expectations when growing citrus near the northern edge of its comfort zone.
While Persian Lime is among the least cold-hardy citrus varieties we grow, the exceptional fruit quality makes the challenge worthwhile.
Quick Facts
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Lime |
| Variety | Persian Lime (Tahiti Lime) |
| Cold Hardiness | Approximately 28–30°F |
| Harvest Season | Nearly Year-Round |
| Pollination | Self-Fertile |
| Fruit Size | Medium to Large |
| Seeds | Usually Seedless |
| Growth Habit | Vigorous Evergreen |
Why We Chose Persian Lime
The answer is simple:
We use them.
While some fruit trees are planted primarily to evaluate performance or diversify harvest windows, Persian Lime was planted because it provides fruit that our family uses regularly throughout the year.
Its nearly seedless fruit, dependable production, and excellent flavor make it one of the most versatile citrus varieties available for home orchards.
Sometimes the best reason to plant a tree is simply that you enjoy eating the fruit.
Tree Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Planting Date | 2026 |
| Quantity | 2 Trees |
| Rootstock | TBD |
| Mulch Type | Pine Bark |
| Irrigation | Drip |
| Soil Type | Amended Clay-Sand Mix |
| Mycorrhizae Applied | Yes |
Annual Growth Log
2026
Planting Date
2026
Observations
- Two trees planted during orchard rebuilding.
- Establishing root systems.
- Monitoring recovery from transplanting.
- Protected from excessive cold during establishment.
Photos
(Insert planting photos)
2027
Winter Conditions
Lowest Temperature: TBD
Freeze Events: TBD
Bloom
TBD
Fruit Set
TBD
Harvest
TBD
Comments
TBD
Weather & Climate Summary
Season Metrics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Lowest Temperature | TBD |
| Freeze Events | TBD |
| Rainfall | TBD |
| Growing Degree Days | TBD |
| Peak Summer Temperature | TBD |
Performance at Chesed Ranch
Strengths
- Excellent fruit quality
- Nearly seedless fruit
- Heavy producer under favorable conditions
- Extremely versatile culinary use
Challenges
- Limited cold tolerance
- Freeze protection may be required during severe winters
- Monitoring for cold damage during establishment years
Overall Assessment
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A must-have citrus variety at Chesed Ranch and one of Michelle’s favorite trees in the orchard.
Related Resources
UF/IFAS Publications
- Citrus for the Home Landscape
- Growing Citrus in North Florida
- Cold Protection for Citrus Trees
Related Trees
- Owari Satsuma
- Meyer Lemon
- Key Lime