Carambola or Star Fruit
Averrhoa carambola
Yellow star-shaped fruit with crisp, sweet, juicy flesh
FEATURES: Evergreen tree from South East Asia with compound leaves. Pink flowers become fleshy star-shaped green fruit that becomes glossy yellow when ripe. Trees 3-5m tall. Fruit set for three years onward and throughout the year peaking in late winter. CONDITIONS: Grow in rich, moist soil in full sun. Suited to warm humid tropics even though will tolerate a mild frost.
FOR BEST RESULTS: Enrich soil with good compost, manure and a good organic mulch layer. Some varieties may be self fertile but it is best to plant two for cross pollination. Ensure adequate moisture by deep soaking. PLANTING IDEAS AND USES:
• eat fruit fresh, in salads, drinks
• highly ornamental edible decoration