Carambola tree (Averrhoa carambola) – Submitted by WH Perron
The carambola tree is a fascinating tropical tree , famous for its star-shaped fruits , called carambolas . Native to Sri Lanka and the Moluccas , it has been cultivated for centuries in South Asia and Malaysia for its tangy, refreshing fruits , rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Its dense foliage, fragrant purple flowers and elegant habit make it a superb ornamental tree , ideal for tropical gardens and container growing in cooler climates.
Characteristics of the variety
🌱 Botanical name : Averrhoa carambola
🌞 Exposure : Full sun
📏 Adult height : Up to 12.2 meters (1,220 cm)
🌿 Adult width : Up to 6.1 meters (610 cm)
🌡 Ideal temperature : 4°C to 35°C
❄️ Cold tolerance : Withstands short periods down to -3°C (mature tree only)
💧 Water requirements : Moderate (regular watering, without excess)
🌸 Flowering : All year round, fragrant pink or mauve flowers
⭐ Fruits : Oval, yellow when ripe, sweet to tangy flavor
Cultivation method
The carambola tree thrives in full sun and prefers a loamy, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5) . It does not tolerate waterlogging , but does require regular watering , especially in summer and dry periods.
🌱 Sowing and multiplication :
- By seeds : Rapid germination, but short viability (a few days). Favor fleshy and mature seeds.
- By grafting : More efficient technique, using rootstocks from one-year-old seedlings.
🌿 Growth and maintenance :
- Protection against cold : Young trees are very sensitive to frost. Cover with a cloth in case of temperatures below 0°C.
- Pruning : Promote an airy structure to improve fruiting and avoid disease.
- Pollination : Self-sterile or partially self-sterile, the presence of several trees improves fruit production.
Good to know
🌎 Native to tropical Asia , it can grow up to 1,200 m above sea level in India .
🍋 Its fruits are rich in vitamin C , low in sugar and sodium, but not recommended for people with kidney failure due to their oxalic acid content.
🐝 Attractive to pollinators , it can be subject to fruit flies and biting insects in some areas .
An exotic fruit tree to grow!
🌴 The carambola tree is both a decorative tree and a producer of delicious and original fruits . It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, but can also be grown in pots for a touch of exoticism on a terrace or in a greenhouse . Its fragrant flowering, generous fruiting and persistent foliage make it a must-have for any tropical plant lover.
