Hortiforum

General Info – Australian Round Lime, Dooja, Australian Lime

The lesser-known relative of the Finger Lime, the Australian Round Lime, is a small citrus native to the subtropical southeast of Queensland. Also referred to as the Dooja, the Australian Round Lime, as its name implies, yields small, lime-like fruits up to 5cm wide. The flesh is somewhat dry and loosely segmented, possessing a popping texture reminiscent of the Finger Lime. The taste and sourness closely resemble that of a Tahitian Lime, accompanied by a subtle yet distinctive floral undertone.
Similar to most citrus fruits, Australian Round Lime can be utilised in cordials, marmalades, or dressings. The fruits boast a thick, knobbly, and edible peel, which can be candied, much like other citrus varieties such as Orange or Lemon, or ground into a spicy paste akin to the Kaffir Lime. In its natural habitat, the Australian Round Lime demonstrates resilience to drought and vigorous growth, making it an ideal choice for individuals in marginal climates seeking a low-maintenance, native citrus. Australian Round Limes are also grafted onto standard citrus rootstocks like Trifoliata, benefiting from the hardiness of the rootstock.
Typically forming a slender, upright tree that can reach heights of up to 15m, the Australian Round Lime can also be pruned to a more compact shrub, standing around 5m tall—an ideal choice for space-conscious gardeners. Much like its relative, the Finger Lime, caution is advised when handling the Australian Round Lime due to its very spiny branches. The foliage exhibits variability, particularly from juvenile to mature stages, although the generally elliptical and pointed glossy dark-green leaves contribute to its aesthetic appeal. With its vibrant lime flavour and fragrant peels, the Australian Round Lime proves to be a versatile ingredient, seamlessly blending into any native garden.

Plant Profile/Properties