Lemon, Lime & Citron Varieties in Thailand
Thailand’s citrus landscape is primarily dominated by limes rather than lemons, with several notable varieties used in cooking, agriculture, and small-scale cultivation.
1. Lemons in Thailand
- Eureka Lemon
Although native to California, Eureka lemons are sometimes grown in Thailand’s warmer regions, such as Chonburi Province, under favorable soil and microclimate conditions. - Bangkok Lemon (Manow-lemon)
Local gardeners report occasional cultivation of lemon varieties under names like Bangkok Lemon or Manow-lemon. These are usually grafted varieties sold at plant markets and grown in home gardens.
2. Lime Varieties
Kaffir (Makrut) Lime (Citrus hystrix)
- Description & Usage
Native to Thailand and Southeast Asia, this lime is renowned for its intensely fragrant bumpy rind and distinctive hourglass-shaped leaves. The leaves are a staple in Thai curries, soups, and sauces; the rind and essential oils are also culturally significant.
Thai Lime (Citrus hystrix)
- Often referred to interchangeably with Kaffir lime, Thai lime thrives in tropical humid climates and is prevalent in both home and commercial gardens.
Other Lime Types
- Key Lime (Citrus ร aurantiifolia): Grown occasionally in backyards for its tart juice, though not broadly cultivated.
- Rangpur Lime (Citrus ร limonia): Possibly present but uncommon in Thailand; more common elsewhere.
3. Citron Varieties
Citron (Citrus medica) is rarely seen in Thailand. No locally documented citron varieties or traditional use have been identified. The primary focus remains on Kaffir lime and small-scale lemon growing.
Summary Table
| Category | Common Thai Varieties |
|---|---|
| Lemons | Eureka Lemon*, Bangkok (“Manow”) Lemon |
| Limes | Kaffir (Makrut) Lime, Key Lime, Rangpur Lime |
| Citrons | (Not common / Not documented) |
*Grown in limited areas (e.g., Chonburi) with specific cultivation practices.
Cultivation & Use Insights
- Lemons: Cultivation in Thailand is minimal; gardeners focus on grafted Eureka or imported varieties adapted to tropical zones. Growers rely on sunny exposures and frequent watering.
- Limes: Kahf๏ฌr (Makrut) lime dominates Thai kitchens and gardens; its aromatic leaves and peels are irreplaceable in regional cuisine. The species thrives in USDA zones 10โ12 (tropical, humid).
- Citron: Absent in cultivation or low demand; citron-based farming and uses are not established in mainstream Thai horticulture.
References (APA Style)
All Recipes. (2022, March 9). What Are Makrut Limes?
Cookยญing with Nart. (n.d.). Growing Lemons in Bangkok, Thailand.
Gardenia. (n.d.). Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrix): Health Benefits, Uses, Growing Tips.
Gardenine. (2022). 4ย Types of Lime Trees [Varieties, Pictures + Identification].
Seeds Nโ Flowers. (2024). Types of Lime Trees: Uses and Where They Grow.
Thaiger. (2014). Gardening: Citrus celebrities โ limeys and limes.
ASEAN NOW Forum. (2024, November 26). Lemons โ Farming in Thailand Forum.
