lime

Small shrublike tree (Citrus aurantifolia), widely grown in tropical and subtropical areas, and its edible acidic fruits. Stiff branches and twigs leave the thorny stem at irregular intervals and end in green leaves. Clusters of small white flowers produce small oval fruits with a thin, pale greenish yellow rind. The juicy pulp is sweeter and more acidic than that of the lemon. Limes are used to flavour many foods. High in vitamin C, they were formerly used in the British navy to prevent scurvy—hence the nickname “limey” for British sailors.

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