Description
Star fruit, also known as carambola, is a tropical fruit that gets its name from its star-like shape when sliced crosswise. It’s known for its unique, refreshing flavour, combining sweet and tart notes, and is often used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Star fruit is typically a yellow or greenish-yellow fruit with five prominent ridges running from top to bottom. The fruit size is between 5 to 15cm long.
The flesh is crisp, juicy, and somewhat watery, with a texture similar to that of an apple or pear, though it’s slightly softer.
The outer skin is edible, with a thin, waxy texture. The fruit can be eaten at various stages of ripeness, but the flavour intensifies when it turns fully ripe.
Star fruit trees are self-pollinating, but having multiple trees nearby can improve fruit yield. It takes about 2 to 3 years to start bearing fruit.
Harvesting
Star fruit trees produce small, star-shaped flowers that grow in clusters. They bloom year-round, but the heaviest blooming is often in spring and summer.
The fruit should be harvested when it turns yellow and has a slight golden tint. The skin will also show a glossy appearance when ripe.
Gently twist or cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit.
Position
These trees thrive in warm climates. They need temperatures between 18°C and 29°C. They can tolerate brief periods of cold but will not survive freezing temperatures
Choose a sunny location with full sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily. The tree will need enough space to grow, as it can spread wide.
Plant trees at least 3 to 5m apart and at the same depth as in the nursery bag.
Living in a colder region, you can grow star fruit in large containers and bring them indoors in winter.
Choose a container with drainage holes that is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system as it grows.
Soil
Star fruit trees prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal. Before planting, add a bag of acid compost.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. However, avoid overwatering, as the tree is sensitive to root rot. Deep watering is recommended to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilising
Apply our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser. For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Pruning:
Shape the tree promoting better air circulation and sunlight penetration. Trim any dead or damaged branches and remove excessive growth that may crowd the tree’s center.
Prune after the harvest season which usually occurs in late Autumn or early winter.
Pest and Disease Management
Watch for aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and caterpillars, which can damage the tree or fruit. Treat promptly or preferably use preventative measures by spraying with agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)
EM Control puts you firmly on the green path when using it in your garden. EM is certified organic, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. Because EM boosts the soil, your garden will flourish without the use of any chemicals. The soil’s vitality equals the vitality of the plants and fruits they produce. EM is a biocontrol measure, controlling pests by releasing microorganisms into the soil. With EM, pests and pathogens are controlled or suppressed by means of natural processes.
Agricultural Neem Oil is a powerful oil that is kind to your garden, fighting against even the most challenging infestations. Our Neem oil is an agricultural grade and is highly effective in controlling roughly 600 different types of insects! Targeted at insects that suck and chew leaves, it doesn’t extend its damage to the rest of the plant or its surrounds. It is Biodegradable, cold pressed and 100% organic.
