Ogeechee Limes: A Native Fruit Tree with Citrus Flavor and Commercial Potential

Along the Ogeechee River grows a little-known fruit tree, the Ogeechee Lime (Nyssa ogeche), which could be a valuable secondary crop for farmers. Reaching 30–40 feet, it turns brilliant scarlet in fall, along with its oval, 1–2 inch fruit—similar in size to a large kumquat with a pleasant acid flavor like lime. The juice flavors foods and drinks; the fruit makes excellent preserves, jellies, and jams.

Growing Conditions and History

Botanists once believed it required boggy, submerged roots, but mature trees at the Coastal Plains Experiment Station in Tifton, Georgia thrive in well-drained soil, producing bushels of fruit. William Bartram, exploring Georgia in 1793, praised its autumn beauty: “no tree exhibits a more desirable appearance… red as scarlet… fruit of that color… agreeable acid juice.”

Cultivation and Benefits

• Dependable annual producer; fruit ripens to scarlet in September, falls naturally or can be shaken onto sheets.
• Prefers partial shade to full sun; needs frequent irrigation for maximum yield; no fertilization required; pest- and disease-free; self-pollinating.
• Uniform fruit size; pollen is vital for “Tupelo Honey,” a gourmet specialty.

This American native tree holds promise as a future commercial fruit crop.