Acid Lime (Hybrid Pati)

The hybrid Pati lemon plant (Citrus limon)—commonly known as the Kolkata Pati Lebu—is a popular, high-yielding evergreen citrus variety native to West Bengal. It produces thin-skinned, highly aromatic, and exceptionally juicy round fruits all year round and is ideal for both container and ground gardening.

KEY PLANT FEATURES

FRUIT TYPE: Small to medium, round or oval lemons with smooth, thin rinds that turn bright yellow when ripe.

FLAVOR PROFILE: Highly fragrant with a sharp, tangy juice that features a mild, refreshing sweetness.

GROWTH HABIT: Compact, bushy evergreen tree reaching about 1.5 to 3 meters in height.

PROPAGATION: Usually produced via grafting or air-layering, which allows the plant to bear fruit much earlier (often within a year or two of planting) compared to seed-grown trees.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

SUNLIGHT: Needs 6 to 8 hours of direct, full sunlight daily.

SOIL: Requires loose, fertile, loamy soil with great drainage and a neutral to slightly acidic pH (5.5 to 7.0).

WATERING: Water regularly when the topsoil feels dry, but avoid waterlogging the roots.

FERTILIZATION: Feed with organic compost, cow dung manure, or a balanced fertilizer every 30 to 45 days to encourage continuous fruiting.

CONTAINER SIZE: If planting on a terrace or balcony, use a grow bag or pot of at least 18 × 18 inches.