Wild Lime

Wild Lime (Zanthoxylum fagara) ranges from 12-20 ft. in height. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree with spreading rounded crown, often with a leaning trunk; spiny, hooked branches, compound bright green foliage, small creme flowers, and small dark fruit. The powdered bark and leaves have a sharp taste and have been used also as a spice. This native citrus family relative, is a host plant for Giant Swallowtail butterflies and a food source for birds. It grows in moist hammocks in the wild but is very adaptable.