Comparative and Correlation Analysis of Young and Mature Kaffir Lime (<i>Citrus hystrix</i> DC) Leaf Characteristics

Kaffir lime is leaf-oriented minor citrus that required extra attention to study. This study aimed to (i) comparatively analyze the young and mature leaf morpho-ecophysiological characters; and (ii) perform a correlation analysis for revealing the relationship among the physiological characters. Plants were ten one-year-old kaffir lime trees cultured under full sun condition. Leaf size was measured by using a specific allometric model. The Li-6400XT portable photosynthesis system was used to observe the leaf ecophysiological characters. The statistical analysis revealed significant differences in leaf size and physiology as the effect of leaf age. A significant size enlargement in mature leaves was noticed, especially in terms of leaf length, area, and weight, of about 77%, 177%, and 196%, respectively. Young leaves experienced a significant improvement in photosynthetic rate and actual water use efficiency for about 39% and 53%, respectively. Additionally, a strong, significant, and positive correlation between leaf chlorophyll, carotenoid content, and photosynthetic rate was found in the present study. Further studies using a multi-omics approach may enrich the science between kaffir lime leaf maturation as the basis of agricultural modification practice