Averrhoa Carambola

Description

Averrhoa Carambola, also known as starfruit, is a tropical fruit tree that is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and India. It belongs to the family Oxalidaceae and is cultivated throughout Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America for its edible fruit.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Averrhoa Carambola tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a dense, bushy crown. It has dark green leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The tree produces fragrant, pink or lavender flowers that bloom during the summer months. The fruit of Averrhoa Carambola is star-shaped and typically 3 to 6 inches long. The skin of the fruit is thin, waxy and yellow-green in color, while the flesh is translucent and juicy. The fruit contains 5 prominent ridges that give it a star-like appearance when cut crosswise.

Care Guide

Water: Averrhoa Carambola trees prefer well-draining soil and require regular watering to keep the soil moist.

Fertilization: These trees require regular fertilization to produce healthy fruit. Use a balanced fertilizer and apply it every 2-3 months during the growing season.

Soil: Averrhoa Carambola trees prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Sunlight: These trees require full sun exposure to produce healthy fruit. They should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones: Averrhoa Carambola trees thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 9a to 11, which includes areas with minimum temperatures between 20 to 40 °F.

Common Pests & Diseases

Averrhoa Carambola trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including fruit flies, scales, and anthracnose. Fruit flies can be controlled with insecticide sprays or baits. Scales can be removed by hand or with a horticultural oil spray. Anthracnose can be controlled with fungicide sprays or by removing infected plant parts.

Habitat

Averrhoa Carambola trees are native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and India, but are now cultivated throughout Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America. They thrive in warm, humid climates and are typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions.

Question and Answer

Q: How long does it take for an Averrhoa Carambola tree to bear fruit?

A: Averrhoa Carambola trees typically begin to bear fruit 3-5 years after planting.

Q: Can Averrhoa Carambola fruit be eaten raw?

A: Yes, the fruit of Averrhoa Carambola can be eaten raw and is often used in salads or as a garnish.

Q: Are Averrhoa Carambola trees self-pollinating?

A: No, Averrhoa Carambola trees require cross-pollination to produce fruit.

Q: How often should I prune my Averrhoa Carambola tree?

A: Averrhoa Carambola trees should be pruned annually during the dormant season to maintain their shape and size.

Related Plants

• Averrhoa bilimbi
• Oxalis triangularis
• Oxalis acetosella
• Oxalis corniculata

References

• “Averrhoa carambola.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 6 April 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b543
• “Averrhoa carambola.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 6 April 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg027
• “Starfruit.” Purdue University. Accessed 6 April 2021. https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/starfruit.html