Limes are the secret ingredient that give our favorite cocktails that refreshing, tropical vibe. There’s a good reason they feel so exotic—they hail from some of the warmest spots on the planet. Unfortunately, because they have to travel so far to get to our grocery stores, they’re often picked long before they’re actually ripe.
Tropical and Subtropical Roots
Pinpointing exactly where the lime first sprouted is a bit of a mystery. Most experts believe they originated in India or Malaysia before hitching a ride along trade routes to other regions with similar balmy weather. You might be surprised to learn that there are actually several different varieties of limes out there; some even turn yellow or orange once they’ve fully ripened on the tree!
This color change really highlights how closely limes and lemons are related. However, comparing their flavors can be tricky. Since limes don’t stay fresh for very long, they have to be harvested while they’re still quite “green” and underripe just to survive the long journey to our kitchens.
Where Limes Grow Best
Limes thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. While a few hardy varieties can handle a little bit of a chill, most prefer to stay warm year-round. To this day, the biggest producers are still found in India and Southeast Asia.
Because limes have become such a staple in kitchens worldwide, they’re now grown anywhere the weather permits. You’ll find massive lime groves throughout the Middle East, the Caribbean, and right here in the USA (especially in Florida and California). They’re also a major crop across Central and South America, as well as Africa.
Lime Production Closer to Home
One of the best things for lime lovers is that many of the fruits we find in stores are now coming from slightly closer regions. When the limes don’t have to be stored as long for transport, it’s a total game-changer. Shorter travel times mean the fruit can stay on the tree longer, allowing it to develop that intense, zesty flavor we all love.
In Europe, Spain and Italy lead the way in lime production. Greece and Turkey have also become big players in the lime game, exporting their harvests across the continent so everyone can enjoy a taste of the tropics.
