The wild lime tree, also known as Zanthoxylum fagara, is a unique and distinctive plant that can be easily identified by its physical characteristics. Let me describe its appearance in detail.
Leaves: The leaves of the wild lime tree are shiny and relatively small, measuring around 1 to 2 inches in length. They are obovate in shape, which means they are wider towards the tip and narrower towards the base. The margins of the leaves are crenate, meaning they have rounded teeth-like edges. This gives the leaves an interesting texture and adds to the overall beauty of the tree.
Fruits: The wild lime tree produces round fruits that start off as yellowish-green in color. As they mature, these fruits develop into a dark brown husk that eventually splits open. Inside the husk, you can find one to two shiny black seeds. The fruits add a touch of color to the tree and can be quite eye-catching.
Thorns: One notable feature of the wild lime tree is its thorny nature. Both the trunk and branches of the tree are armed with hooked thorns. These thorns serve as a protective mechanism for the tree, deterring animals and humans from getting too close. They also add a sense of ruggedness to the appearance of the tree.
Bark: The bark of the wild lime tree is scaly in texture. It may appear rough and somewhat peeling in certain areas. The color of the bark can vary, but it typically ranges from light brown to grayish-brown. The scaly bark gives the tree a unique and textured look.
The wild lime tree is a visually striking plant. Its shiny, obovate leaves with crenate margins, round yellowish-green fruits that mature into dark brown husks, hooked thorns on the trunk and branches, and scaly bark all contribute to its distinctive appearance. Observing these features can help you easily identify a wild lime tree in its natural habitat.
I hope this detailed description helps you visualize the wild lime tree accurately.