Valletta

Valletta is an acid lime allegedly originating from Malta, hence its name, which corresponds to that of the Maltese capital. Given its characteristics, it is understood to be the result of the selection of a point mutation that occurred on the Persian Lime (or Tahiti Lime), an acid lime of unknown origin that is a seedless hybrid of the Lemon Tree and Mexican Lime. This cultivar is characterized by being less vigorous and producing smaller fruits than the Persian Lime. These traits are similar to those of the "Idemor" cultivar, which originated in Florida (USA), patented in the US in 1941, and is supposedly extinct. Its fruits, like those of the Persian Lime, produce juice with an interesting spicy note that gives it its character.

Weak tree, with branches that tend to open and fall. It has small thorns. Leaves smaller than those of the Persian lime and less dense foliage. It is also less productive. Medium-sized fruits, with an eminently cylindrical morphology and a small apical nipple that maintains the style insertion. The basal area is usually flat and may have a low crown. Thin and smooth bark, almost waxy, that reaches an albero yellow color at maturity and is moderately aromatic, with a hint of vanilla. Very juicy, acidic, and aromatic pulp, greenish in color even when the fruit is ripe. It does not have seeds. The fruits do not hold well on the tree once ripe.

Like the Persian lime, the fruits can be consumed both green and ripe. It is considered the best lime for seasoning fish dishes. Its juice is used as a condiment for all kinds of dishes and is an accepted substitute for Mexican lime in the market and among users. The essential oils from its rind, a byproduct of juice concentrate production, are considered to have the same commercial quality as those from Mexican lime.