The kaffir lime is a rough, warty green fruit that grows on thorny bush with aromatic and distinctively shaped double leaves.
It is well suited to container growing.
The green lime fruit is distinguished by its bumpy exterior and its small size, approx. 4 cm wide.
The rind of the kaffir lime is commonly used in Laotian and Thai curry paste, adding an aromatic, astringent flavor.
The leaves are used in Indonesian cuisine (especially Balinese and Javanese), for foods.
The leaves can be used fresh or dried, and can be stored frozen.
The juice and rinds are used in traditional Indonesian medicine.
The oil from the rind has strong insecticidal properties.
The juice is generally regarded as too acidic to use in food preparation, but finds use as a cleanser for clothing and hair in Thailand.