Belimbing

Common name: Starfruit

Malay name: Belimbing

Scientific name: Averrhoa carambola L.

Conservation status: Cultivated, Native to Malaysia

Description

A much-branched tree that is around 3-5 m tall. Leaves develop into smaller, oppositely-arranged leaflets. It bears lilac flowers which are grouped in small clusters. Fruits are waxy, yellow, star-shaped in cross section.

Habit: Perennial tree

Cultivation: It is planted by seeds or grafting

Ecological function: The flowers of this tree attract pollinators.

Pollinator: Bees, flies

Soil: Sand, loam, clay, organic soils

Moisture: Well-drained soils

Shade: No shade

Use: The ripe fruit is eaten raw or blended into fruit juice.