Mousmi or Citrus limetta is a species of citrus, is a member of the sweet lemons. It is small and round, like a common lime in shape. Mousami is actually a hybrid of bitter orange and citron.
Mousmi grow to a small tree of about 8 metres tall, with zigzag branches with thorns.
- Origin: South Asia
- Common names: Sweet lime, Sweet lemon, Sweet limetta, Mausambi, Mousmi, Mosambi, or Musambi
- Scientific name: Citrus limetta
- Botanical family: Rutaceae
- Edibility rating: 8/10
- Health Benefits: 8/10
- Maturity period: Seedlings: 3-7 years; Vegetative propagation (grafting): 2-3 years
- Fruiting season: November to March (India)
- Growing in containers: Possible
- Sunlight requirement: Full sun
- Growth habit type: Tree
- Average Height: 10-20 feet (3-6 meters)
- Average width (canopy span): 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
- Growth rate: Medium
- Ease of growing: Easy
Growing Mousmi
Citrus limetta grows in tropical and subtropical climates. Hence, it can be grown in most parts of India. Seedlings begin bearing fruit at 5 to 7 years of age while bud plants mature much early.
It grows best when planted on the ground. However, it is not unusual to grow Musambi in pots, especially on terrace gardens.
Mosambi prefers a slightly acidic soil (pH between 5.5 and 6.5).
Pruning should be done for new branches to grow and for proper growth. Branches up to 60 cm above the ground can be pruned.
When bud plants are used, flowering occurs after three years of cultivation. It is better to remove these flowers for the better health of the plant and to get a good yield from the next year onwards.
Mousmi is picked from the tree just before it is ripe.
Mousami fruit description
The Citrus limmetta fruits are oval and green. It has a mildly sweet, acidic taste with a citrus flavour.
Mosambi juice is an excellent source of vitamin C and a nourishing drink. It is also commonly consumed when people feel sick or feverish. It is often enjoyed with a dash of black salt.