Carambola
Averrhoa carambola
As fall approaches, South Florida's carambola trees hang heavy with golden fruits. The carambola, or star fruit was introduced into Florida over 100 years ago from Southeast Asia. In Florida fruits can be found through the year but the main crop usually matures from late summer to early winter depending on the cultivar. Ripe carambolas are eaten out-of-hand, sliced and served in salads, or used as garnish on avocado or seafood. They are also served cooked in tarts and curries. A relish is made of chopped unripe fruit combined with celery, vinegar and spices, and a refreshing juice may be prepared and served on sultry South Florida evenings. In Hawaii, the juice of sour varieties is mixed with gelatin, sugar and boiling water to make sherbet. Carambolas are good sources of Vitamin A, C and potassium.
The carambola, or star fruit, is a member of the Oxalidaceae family. It was introduced into Florida more than 100 years ago from Southeast Asia. The carambola should be classed as tropical and sub-tropical because mature trees can tolerate freezing temperatures for short periods, and are adapted to hot, humid areas. The tree needs full sun. In Florida fruits can be found through the year but the main crop usually matures from late summer to early winter depending of the cultivar. We recommend the cultivar ‘B10' which is a small tree with sweet fruit and excellent production. The fruits naturally fall to the ground when fully ripe. Fruit color changes from green to yellow, carambolas should be picked when fully yellow to assure good eating quality. Ripe carambolas are eaten out-of-hand, sliced and served in salads, or used as garnish on avocado or seafood. They are also cooked in tarts, curries and rices. The Chinese cook carambolas with fish. A relish may be made of chopped unripe fruits combined with celery, vinegar and spices. Carambola juice is served as a cooling beverage. In Hawaii, the juice of sour fruits is mixed with gelatin, sugar and boiling water to make sherbet. Carambolas are good sources of vitamin C and potassium and Vitamin A.