The Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is a citrus fruit which is typically round, green, 3–6 cm in diameter, and containing sour (acidic) pulp. There are several species of citrus trees whose fruits are called limes, including the Key lime, Persian lime, Kaffir lime, and Desert lime. Limes are a good source of vitamin C, and are often used to accent the flavors of foods and beverages. The pulp is tender, juicy, yellowish green in colour, and decidedly acid. Limes exceed lemons in both acid and sugar content. There are, however, some varieties so lacking in citric acid that they are known as sweet limes. They are grown year-round and currently the largest commercial producer is India.
Interestingly; when human skin is exposed to ultraviolet light after lime juice contact, a reaction known as phytophotodermatitis can occur, which can cause darkening of the skin, swelling or blistering.