Common names for the this fruit include Rangpur in India, Canton lemon in South China, Hime lemon in Japan, Cravo lemon in Brazil, and mandarin-lime in the United States. The name lime in connection with this fruit is often misleading because there are very few similarities between the Rangpur and true limes. However, Rangpurs are highly acidic and can be used as a substitute for commercial limes. The Rangpur is almost certainly of Indian origin. It was introduced into Florida in the late nineteeth century by Reasoner Brothers of Oneco, who obtained seed from northwestern India. In the United States the Rangpur is used as an ornamental or potted plant, but outside the United States it is used principally as a rootstock.
In 2006, Diageo, Plc, introduced a rangpur-flavored version of Tanqueraygin, known simply as Tanqueray Rangpur.