Key lime - Definition and Overview

Key lime (Citrus aurantifolia), also called the Mexican lime or bartender's lime, is a small lime used in making margaritas and key lime pie, a specialty of American cuisine in Florida. Key lime is one of two species of limes widespread in commerce, the other being the larger and more common Persian lime (Citrus latifolia).

The key lime is native to southeast Asia but was introduced to the Americas and is named for the Florida Keys, where the plant's thorn-filled trees grow. Their thin rinds make the fruits intolerant of frost.

Since the North American Free Trade Agreement came into effect, many key limes are grown in Mexico and Central America. They are also grown in Texas and California.

External link

• Key lime (http://www.tonytantillo.com/fruits/limes.html)