Mary Ellen sweet lime

Citrus limettioides Tan.

CRC 4053

VI 625  

Photos by Toni Siebert, CVC. Photo rights.

Source: Received as budwood from Mexico, via Raul Gonzales of Lindcove Research and Extension Center, 2000.

Parentage/origins: Parents unknown. From Valley of the Yaquis, Sonora, Mexico.

Rootstocks of accession: Yuma Ponderosa lemon

Season of ripeness at Riverside: Unknown at this time.

Notes and observations:

C. limettiodes, is a newly-selected lime originating in Mexico where similar fruits are referred to as “lima dolce.” The mature tree is medium-large with a spreading habit.  The flowers are pure white and the new leaves are bright green.  The fruits are small, round to slightly oval with a smooth pale green to greenish-yellow rind at maturity.  The flesh is pale yellow, tender and juicy, and has a few seeds.  The flavor is insipid due to the lack of acidity in the fruit, but is appealing to some.  

Availability: Commercially available in California through the Citrus Clonal Protection Program.

USDA Germplasm Resources Information Network page for Mary Ellen sweet lime