Averrhoa carambolaStarfruit Tree

Averrhoa carambola, the Starfruit or Carambola, is a small, densely branched evergreen tree with soft pinnate leaves that fold shut at dusk. Lilac-pink flowers are carried in clusters directly on the branches and older wood, and are followed by the ribbed yellow fruit that cuts into a five-pointed star.

In landscape work it is used as a productive feature tree in courtyards and edible schemes, where the fruit is on show at eye level and the canopy is small enough to sit close to buildings.

Specifications

• Height5 to 9 metres
• Width4 to 7 metres
• Native toTropical Southeast Asia
• FoliagePinnate leaves with soft oval leaflets that fold at night; evergreen to briefly semi-deciduous
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers deep, well-drained loams rich in organic matter; dislikes waterlogging and saline ground
• LightFull sun
• WaterModerate; needs regular water while fruit is sizing and is not drought-tolerant
• ClimateThrives in tropical and warm subtropical regions; frost sensitive

Additional Features

• FlowersClusters of small lilac-pink flowers borne on branches and older wood, in several flushes a year
• FruitDeeply ribbed yellow fruit, star-shaped in cross section, crisp and edible
• UsesIdeal as a productive feature tree in courtyards, edible landscapes, orchards and small gardens
• SpacingPlant 5 to 7 metres apart for orchard rows or open-grown specimens
• Low MaintenanceLight pruning to shape and to keep fruit within reach
• Pest ResistanceGenerally healthy; fruit fly can affect the crop where it is present
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers draw bees and ripe fruit attracts birds
• VersatilityGrown as an open-crowned small tree or trained flat against a warm wall

The Starfruit Tree gives a courtyard a productive centrepiece at a scale that suits built space.