What is the green plant that looks like a lime?

One green plant that resembles a lime is Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green.’ This plant is a tender perennial, which means it is not able to withstand freezing temperatures and is best grown as an annual or brought indoors during the colder months. However, despite its short lifespan, it is a vigorous plant that can provide a striking addition to any garden or landscape.

Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ is known for its broad, spoon-shaped leaves. These leaves are typically a vibrant shade of green, resembling the color of a lime. The foliage itself can add a refreshing and tropical feel to the garden, especially when paired with other plants of contrasting colors and textures.

One of the standout features of this plant are its large, funnel-shaped flowers. The flowers of Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ are also lime green in color, which further enhances the resemblance to a lime fruit. These flowers can be quite eye-catching and can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.

The flowers of Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ have a delightful fragrance, particularly in the evening. This makes it an excellent choice for planting near outdoor seating areas or windows where the scent can be enjoyed. The fragrance is often described as sweet and intoxicating, adding another sensory dimension to the garden.

In terms of care, Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires well-draining soil and regular watering to keep it healthy and thriving. This plant can reach a height of around 2-3 feet, so it is important to provide adequate spacing when planting to allow for proper growth and airflow.

One thing to note about Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ is that it is a short-lived perennial. While it can provide a stunning display of lime-green foliage and flowers, it is not a plant that will last for multiple seasons. However, it can readily self-seed, allowing for new plants to emerge in subsequent years if conditions are favorable.

In my personal experience, Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ has been an excellent addition to my garden. Its vibrant green foliage and lime-colored flowers add a pop of color and interest to my landscape. I particularly enjoy its fragrance in the evening, as it creates a soothing and inviting atmosphere.

To summarize, Nicotiana alata ‘Lime Green’ is a vigorous but short-lived tender perennial that resembles a lime with its broad, spoon-shaped leaves and large, funnel-shaped, lime-green flowers. It can add a refreshing and tropical feel to the garden, attract pollinators, and provide a delightful fragrance in the evening. While it requires regular care and attention, it can be a stunning addition to any garden or landscape.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.