Key Limes
Some people believe that "key lime" simply refers to the limes that are used for making the pies, or limes that grow only in the Florida Keys. Actually, the key lime is a specific variety of lime. It is not exclusive to the Keys. It was brought there years ago and became naturalized.
The key lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is much smaller than regular "Persian" limes. The key lime ranges in size from a ping-pong ball to a golf ball. The peel is thin, smooth and greenish-yellow when ripe. Key limes have a very distinctive aroma, which makes them valuable for culinary use.
Limes, including the Key Lime, actually contain less vitamin C than lemons.
Nutrition Facts for juice of one lime (2-inches in diameter):
