This tree, native to the American tropics, is widely cultivated in the West Indies, It is not related to citrus limes. The tree is medium to large. Fruits are borne in clusters.
Individual fruits are ovoid in shape, an inch or more long, and have a thin, brittle skin.
Inside is a thin layer of tart to sweet pulp and a large seed. Fruit ripens in late summer. The edible portion is the juicy pulp. The seeds are edible after roasting.