Small, bushy tree, rarely taller than 12 feet with slender branches armed with short spines. Spineless selections are more compact and upright in growth, have darker green foliage, and are characterized by low yields. Flowering occurs throughout the year but mainly in the spring. Very thin, smooth and leathery rind, greenish yellow at maturity. Flesh greenish yellow, juicy, highly acid with distinctive aroma.
Some fruit mature on the tree year round.
Principal season is summer in south Florida and later further north. Budded trees should produce fruit within 3 years, while seedling trees require another year or two before fruiting. The Key lime is very sensitive to cold temperatures, which limits it to warm areas of southern Florida. Locally cold locations within a given area may be hazardous whereas some locally warm locations outside an area may be suitable. Trees should be planted in locations sheltered from cold north winds.