Contents
Description
Micromelum Minutum, also known as the Bitter Orange or Kaffir Lime, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the citrus family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This plant is well-known for its fragrant leaves and small, bitter-tasting fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Micromelum |
Appearance
The Micromelum Minutum plant can grow up to 8 feet tall with a spread of 6 feet. It has a bushy growth habit and produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with a pointed tip. The fruit is small, round, and green, turning yellow when ripe. It has a bitter taste and is not commonly eaten raw, but is used in cooking to add flavor to dishes.
Care Guide
To care for Micromelum Minutum, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, and sunlight. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It should be watered regularly, but not over-watered as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant needs full sun to thrive and should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Micromelum Minutum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by scale insects or spider mites. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if over-watered.
Habitat
Micromelum Minutum is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It grows in tropical forests and is often found in the understory of taller trees. The plant prefers warm, humid environments and is not tolerant of cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Micromelum Minutum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a container as long as it is placed in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should Micromelum Minutum be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Are the fruits of Micromelum Minutum edible?
A: The fruits are edible but have a bitter taste and are not commonly eaten raw. They are used in cooking to add flavor to dishes.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Micromelum Minutum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Citrus aurantiifolia
- Citrus hystrix
- Citrus limon
- Citrus reticulata
References
- “Micromelum minutum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 Sep. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c299>.
- “Micromelum minutum.” Plantz Africa. Accessed 15 Sep. 2021. <https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/micromelumminut.htm>.
- “Micromelum minutum.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed 15 Sep. 2021. <https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Micromelum_minutum.pdf>.
