Microcitrus australasica, commonly known as Australian Finger Lime, is a thorny evergreen shrub or small tree native to the subtropical rainforests and the understorey of open, dry forests in Queensland and New South Wales, Australia. It typically grows between 7-23 feet tall and can spread 3-10 feet wide. The plant features small, elongated, cylindrical fruits, known as "lime caviar," which contain juice vesicles that burst with a tangy flavor when eaten. The fruits are green to pinkish and ripen from autumn to spring, depending on the climate and variety. The flowers are small, white to pale pink, and bloom in spring and summer, providing a modest ornamental display.

Australian Finger Lime is valued for its unique fruit, which is used in gourmet cuisine, including marmalades, pickles, and as a flavoring spice. It is also cultivated for its ornamental qualities and as a potted specimen. In cultivation, it prefers well-drained soil, moderate water, and can tolerate both full sun and part shade. It is relatively low-maintenance once established but requires protection from frost in cooler climates. The plant has shown resistance to some citrus diseases, such as Phytophthora and Citrus Canker, making it a candidate for breeding disease-resistant citrus rootstocks. However, it can be susceptible to pests like scale insects and mites.CC BY-SA 4.0