Julia Wilson, Author at Botany-World

Citrus Pests: Common Pests Affecting Citrus Species

As a home gardener with a lot of fruit trees, I have found citrus to be one of the easiest species of fruit tree to grow in our subtropical climate. But, as with all plants, citrus can be affected by pests which can greatly impact their health and reduce fruit quality and quantity. Citrus pests … Read more

Makrut Lime (Citrus hystrix) Care

by Julia Wilson

What is makrut lime? What does makrut lime look like? How to grow makrut lime What does makrut lime smell and taste like? Culinary uses Health benefits Why is the name kaffir lime no longer used? Is makrut lime the same as bergamot? Where can I buy makrut lime?

At a glance

Family	Rutaceae
Botanical name	Citrus hystrix DC
Common names	Makrut lime, Kaffir lime, Leech lime, Thai lime, Mauritius papeda, Mauritius bitter orange, Kieffer lime, Limau purut, Combavas, Wild lime, Kabuyaw, La chanh
Lifespan	Evergreen tree
Mature height	3 – 4 metres
Flower colour	White
Leaf colour	Green
Native to	India, South East Asia, Southern China, Malaysia and Thailand
Soil	Free-draining
Humidity	High
Propagation	Cuttings
Care level	Easy

What is makrut lime?

More commonly known as kaffir lime, makrut lime (Citrus hystrix) is a citrus tree native to tropical Southeast Asia. Makrut lime leaves are a key ingredient in Thai cooking, imparting an aromatic citrus flavour.

Growing Citrus in Pots

by Julia Wilson

Citrus trees add an attractive feature to decks and gardens. Their shiny green leaves, scented flowers and fruit make an appealing feature. A number of dwarf varieties are available, which are suitable for pots and small spaces.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp) Care

by Julia Wilson

At a glance What is peace lily? Description Cultivars Care Propagation Pests and diseases Uses

At a glance

Family	Araceae
Botanical name	Spathiphyllum spp.
Common names	Peace lily, White flag, Cupido peace lily, White peace lily, Espatifilo, Mauna Loa, Snowflower
Lifespan	Perennial
Habitat	Tropical rainforests
Growth habit	Clumping
Mature height	30 – 120 cm
Flower colour	White, green
Leaf colour	Green, variegated
Native to	Americas and Southeast Asia
Toxicity	Toxic to pets
Soil	Moisture-retaining
Humidity	High
Propagation	Division
Care level	Easy

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’) Care

by Julia Wilson

At a glance What is Boston fern? How to care for Boston fern Propagation Repotting

At a glance

Family	Lomariopsidaceae
Botanical name	Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis‘
Common names	Boston fern, Fishbone fern, Tuber ladder fern
Lifespan	Perennial
Habitat	Coniferous forests
Mature height	50 – 150 cm
Flower colour	–
Leaf colour	Green
Native to	Americas
Toxicity	Pet friendly
Soil	Moisture-retaining
Humidity	High
Propagation	Division
Care level	Easy

Is Mistletoe Fig Toxic to Dogs?

by Julia Wilson

Mistletoe fig (Ficus deltoidea) is toxic to dogs. The toxic principles are ficin a proteolytic enzyme, and ficusin, a psoralen that causes oral and dermal irritation along with vomiting and diarrhea.

Yuzu Fruit (Citrus junos)

by Julia Wilson

What is yuzu? Cultivation What does yuzu smell and taste like? What’s the difference between yuzu and lemon? Why is yuzu so popular? Description Culinary uses Health benefits Where can I buy yuzu? How to grow yuzu

What is yuzu?

Yuzu (Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka) is a natural hybrid of the Ichang papeda (Citrus cavaleriei), a small wild species of lemon, and a sour mandarin, and is thought to have originated from the Hubei Province, along the Yangtze River. It was introduced to Japan over 1,000 years ago during the Tang dynasty.

Is Christmas Cactus Toxic to Dogs?

by Julia Wilson

Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) is non-toxic to dogs and can be safely grown in homes with pets, with care.

Feeding and Caring For a Live or Cut Christmas Tree

by Julia Wilson

A fresh Christmas tree is one of the highlights of decorating the home during the festive season. With so much time and money invested in purchasing and decorating a Christmas tree, it’s important to keep it as happy and healthy as possible so that it stays in tip top shape.

Fresh Christmas trees may be chopped down, or live in their pot, and the care is similar for both types of trees.

Buddha’s Hand Citrus (Citrus medica var. sarcodacylis)

by Julia Wilson

What is Buddha’s hand? Why is it called Buddha’s hand? What does Buddha’s hand taste like? What is Buddha’s hand used for? How to store Buddha’s hand How to grow Buddha’s hand Where to buy Buddha’s hand?

What is Buddha’s hand?

Buddha’s hand citron (Citrus medica var. sarcodacylis), also known as fingered citron or bushukan in Japanese, is a type of citrus fruit that is native to northern India. It is named for its unusual shape, which resembles a hand with elongated fingers. Buddha’s hand citron is typically yellow or pale green in colour, and has a thin, bumpy peel that is covered in small oil glands. The fruit is fragrant and has a sweet, floral aroma. The tree on which it grows can reach heights of up to 20 feet and has long, spiky thorns. Buddha’s hand citron is not widely grown or consumed, but it is popular in some parts of Asia and is often given as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.