All About the Rangpur Lime Tree.
History:
The Rangpur lime tree grows an exotic citrus fruit that is believed to be a hybrid between the mandarin orange and the lemon. It is named after the Rangpur region in Bangladesh, where it was originally cultivated.
The Fruit:
These small citrus fruits resemble small mandarin oranges, but have a sour flavor that is more like a lime. The flavor is tinged with distinct floral notes, which makes it very unique and memorable. Rangpur lime juice and zest can be used for making cocktails, marmalades, and dressings. The flowers are white and purple.
If you'd like to experience the exotic flavor of Rangpur lime, it is available in Tanquerey Rangpur Lime Gin. You can also purchase the fruit from exotic fruit growers.
But of course the most fun way to taste a Rangpur Lime is to grow one yourself! If you're feeling adventurous and maybe like adding a gourmet citrus flavor to your culinary repetoire, the Rangpur Lime tree comes highly recommended by me.
Here are some key points to consider when growing a Semi-Dwarf Rangpur Lime Tree:
Climate and Location:
Rangpur lime is a subtropical citrus variety and is best suited for regions USDA hardiness zones 9-11. They are frost sensitive trees, and if you live in an area that gets freezing temperatures, they should be grown in a container and brought inside for the winter.
Soil:
Rangpur lime trees in pots thrive in a chunky, well-draining soil mix like our DIY Primo Potting Mix. It is composed of 2 parts orchid bark and 1 part citrus specific potting mix. It is also recommended but optional that you add 1 part perlite to your potting mix.
Sun:
Plant or place your pot in a sunny location where your Rangpur Lime tree will receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. On very hot days, afternoon shade is a nice reprieve from the sun.
Planting In-Ground:
For in-ground planting, dig a hole in a prepared/amended space that is as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Be careful not to bury the crown of the roots, but instead keep them right at the surface of the soil. Water thoroughly after planting. The prepared space should be 3x the size of the root ball and as deep as you can dig. This amended soil should be well-draining and chunky, allowing for root growth.
Planting In Containers:
If you are starting with a primo sized Rangpur Lime tree, choose a starter pot that is 10-14” wide with lots of drainage holes. Good drainage is crucial for the health of your citrus tree. Use a chunky, well-draining soil mix like our DIY Primo Potting Mix. There should also be lots of drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.
When planting your tree, gently pull your tree out of the nursery pot. With your fingers, carefully remove as much of the old dirt as possible without disturbing the larger root structure in the center as well as its surrounding roots.
Fill ¼ of your pot with your chunky soil mix and add your tree in the center. Carefully fill the space around your tree with soil mix. Make sure there are no air pockets, and the tree can stand in the middle. Leave just the top of the roots, or the crown, above the soil line. If necessary, stake your tree by sticking the stake about 3” away from the base of the tree. Water your tree deeply and thoroughly.
Watering:
Rangpur lime trees require regular, consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It's important to water at the base of the tree, aiming at the soil to avoid wetting the foliage, as citrus trees are susceptible to fungal diseases.
Fertilizing:
Use a balanced citrus fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees. We recommend Romeo Plant Food or G&B Organics Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. The best time to feed your Rangpur Lime tree is in the spring and late summer.
Pruning:
The best time to prune your citrus tree is in the early spring. Prune your tree to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the canopy for better air circulation and sunlight penetration. Regular pruning can help improve fruit production and reduce the risk of pests and diseases. Click here to read about Pruning Your Citrus Trees.
Pests and Diseases:
Keep an eye out for common citrus pests like aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miners. Treat infestations promptly. Protect your tree from diseases such as citrus canker and citrus greening (HLB) by practicing good hygiene and following local recommendations for disease management.
Harvesting:
Rangpur limes are typically ready for harvest when they turn bright orange in color. In tropical areas, the fruit may stay green. This is because citrus needs a period of cool weather to change color from green to yellow or orange. The limes can be harvested throughout the year. Use pruners or scissors to cut the fruit from the tree, as pulling on the fruit may damage the fruit or the branches.
Growing a Rangpur lime tree may require some protection from cold temperatures in cooler regions. In colder zones 4-8 consider planting your Rangpur lime tree in a container that can be moved indoors during the winter months to protect it from frost.
Also Read: How to Grow An Australian Finger Lime Tree
Rangpur Semi-Dwarf Lime Tree
$65.00
--OVERVIEW-- The overlap of prolific fruit and purple-tinged blooms make this a wonderful ornamental tree. Rangpur Limes, a mandarin-citron cross, originated in the area of Rangpur, Bangladesh, and in India they are called “gandhraj”, meaning King of Fragrance. They are… read more
