CARAMBOLA Fruit Facts Common Names: Carambola, Starfruit. Related Species: Bilimbi (Averrhoa bilimbi L.). Origin: The carambola is believed to have originated in Sri Lanka and the Moluccas, but it has been cultivated in southeast Asia and Malaysia for many centuries. Adaptation: The carambola is classified as subtropical because mature trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 27° F for short periods of time with little damage. Like many other subtropicals, however, young plants are more susceptible to frost and can be killed at 32° F. Carambolas can be severely damaged by flooding or prevailing hot, dry winds. The small trees make good container plants. DESCRIPTION Growth Habit: The carambola is a slow-growing, short-trunked evergreen tree with a much-branched, bushy canopy that is broad and rounded. Mature trees seldom exceed 25-30 feet in height and 20-25 feet in spread. Trees are very unlikely to reach this size in California. In a spot to its liking carambolas make handsome ornamentals.

Container grown plants are equally attractive and have the additional advantage of being movable. Foliage: The spirally arranged, alternate leaves are 6 - 10 inches long, with 5 - 11 nearly opposite, ovate-oblong leaflets that are 1-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches in length. They are soft, medium-green, and smooth on the upper surface, faintly hairy and whitish on the underside. The leaflets are sensitive to light and more or less inclined to to fold together at night or when the tree is shaken or abruptly shocked. Flowers: The fragrant, pink to lavender flowers are 3/8 inch in diameter, perfect, and borne in clusters in axils of leaves on young branches, or on older branches without leaves. There are several flushes of bloom throughout the year. Fruit: Carambola fruits are ovate to ellipsoid, 2-1/2 to 5 inches (6 to 13 cm) in length, with 5 (rarely 4 or 6) prominent longitudinal ribs. Slices cut in cross-section are star shaped.

The skin is thin, light to dark yellow and smooth with a waxy cuticle. The flesh is light yellow to yellow, translucent, crisp and very juicy, without fiber. The fruit has a more or less oxalic acid odor and the flavor ranges from very sour to mildly sweet. The so-called sweet types rarely have more than 4% sugar. There may be up to 12 flat, thin brown seeds 1/4 - 1/2 inch long or none at all. Seeds lose viability in a few days after removal from fruit. CULTURE Location: Carambolas do best in a frost-free location. They are tolerant of wind except for those that are hot and dry. The tree needs full sun. Soils: The carambola is not too particular as to soil, but will grow faster and bear more heavily in rich loam. It prefers a moderately acid soil (pH 5.5 - 6.5) and is sensitive to waterlogging. The plant often becomes chlorotic in alkaline soils. Irrigation: The carambola need moisture for best performance. This means regular watering during the summer months and must be watered even in winter during dry spells.

Fertilization: In soils of low fertility young trees should receive light applications every 60 to 90 days until well established. Thereafter, they should receive one or two applications a year in deep soils or three or more applications in shallow soils where nutrients are lost by leaching. Application at the rate of 2 lbs per year for every inch of trunk diameter is suggested. Fertilizer mixtures containing 6-8% nitrogen, 2-4% available phosphoric acid, 6-8% potash and 3-4% magnesium are satisfactory. In the more fertile soils of California, this program can be reduced. The tree is prone to chlorosis in many western soils but responds to soil and foliar application of chelated iron and other micronutrients. Frost protection: Since it is a small tree, winter protection can be fairly easily given prior to any anticipated cold spell. Carpeting, sheets and such can be spread over a frame, with light bulbs for added warmth. Pruning: Carambolas seldom need pruning. Pests and Diseases: No serious diseases are known to be of sufficient importance to require control measures.

The fruit is subject to fruit fly, fruit moths and fruit spotting bugs in those areas having these infestations. Propagation: The carambola is widely grown from seed though viability lasts only a few days. Only plump, fully developed seed should be planted. Veneer grafting during the time of most active growth gives the best results. Healthy, year-old seedlings of 3/8 - 3/4 inch diameter are best for rootstocks. Graft-wood should be taken from mature twigs on which leaves are still present and, if possible, the buds are just beginning to grow. Cleft-grafting of green budwood is also successful. Top-working of older trees has been done by bark grafting. Air-layering is less successful than grafting. The roots develop slowly, and percentage of success often is low. Trees are small and rather weak when propagated by this method. Harvest: Fruit best when ripened on the tree, but will ripen slowly if picked before fully ripe. Green or ripe fruits are easily damaged and must be handled with great care. Ripe carambolas are eaten out-of-hand, sliced and served in salads or used as a garnish.

They are also cooked in puddings, tarts, stews and curries. CULTIVARS Several carambola varieties are sold in California nurseries, but sufficient data on these has not been gathered, nor has adequate testing been done in California to recommend any particular cultivar for planting. There are a number of excellent carambola varieties available in Florida, including the following: Arkin Uniform fruit, 4 - 5 inches long. Bright yellow to yellow-orange skin and flesh. Very sweet, juicy, firm flesh with few seeds. Keeps and ships well. Tree partially self-fertile. Bears December to March in California. The leading commercial cultivar. Fwang Tung Fruit 5 - 8 inches long. Pale yellow skin and flesh. Very sweet and juicy, firm flesh with few seeds. Beautiful star shape when cut in slices. Golden Star Originated in Homestead FL. Introduced in 1965. Large, deeply winged fruit. Skin bright golden yellow. very waxy. Flesh juicy. crisp, mildly subacid to sweet in flavor, containing no fibers. High in carbohydrates and vitamins A and C. Tree bears well and regularly without cross pollination.

Hoku Selected by the University of Hawaii. Fruit 5 - 6 inches long. Bright yellow skin and flesh. Juicy, firm flesh with a sweet rich flavor, few seeds. Attractive star shape when cut in slices. Kaiang Fruit 4 - 5 inches long. Bright yellow skin and flesh. Sweet, juicy, firm flesh with few seeds. Beautiful star shape when cut in slices. Maha Originated in Hawaii. Roundish fruit with light yellowish-white skin. Sweet, crunchy, white flesh with low acid content. Sri Kembanqan (Kembangan) Originated in Thailand. Elongated pointed fruit, 5 - 6 inches long. Bright yellow-orange skin and flesh. Juicy, firm flesh with few seeds. Flavor rich and sweet; excellent dessert quality. Wheeler Star Fruit, Carambola, Averrhoa carambola Averrhoa carambola Carambola or Star Fruit The Carambola or Star Fruit is an unique and flavorful fruit. The fruit's flavor ranges from very sour to mildly sweetish and tastes something like a mix of apple, pineapple, and kiwi fruit.

Slices cut in cross-section have the form of a star. The carambola tree is medium fast growing, has a short-trunk, is multi-branched, bushy, broad, with a rounded crown and reaches 20 to 30' in height and about the same in width. Pruning will keep the tree from getting too large while still allowing it to bear fruit prolifically. A good tropical fruit tree for limited space. Carambola tree Common Name: Star Fruit, Carambola Botanical Name: Averrhoa carambola Origin: Ceylon and the Moluccas Zones: 8 (in sheltered areas) - 11 Height: to 30' Rate of Growth: Slow Salt Tolerance: Low Soil Requirements: Not too particular as to soil, but will grow faster and bear more heavily in rich loam. Needs good drainage; cannot stand flooding.

Water Requirements: Medium drought tolerance Nutritional Requirements: Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly, side dressings of composted manure Light Requirements: Full sun Form: Short-trunk with a much-branched, bushy, broad, rounded crown Leaves: Deciduous leaves, spirally arranged, are alternate, imparipinnate, 6 to 10" long, with 5 to 11 nearly opposite leaflets, ovate or ovate-oblong, 1 1/2 to 3 1/2" long; soft, medium-green, and smooth on the upper surface, finely hairy and whitish on the underside. The leaflets are sensitive to light and more or less inclined to fold together at night or when the tree is shaken or abruptly shocked. Flowers: Small clusters of red-stalked, lilac, purple-streaked, downy flowers, about 1/4" wide, are borne on the twigs in the axils of the leaves.

Fruits: Showy, oblong, longitudinally 5- to 6-angled fruits, 2 1/2 to 6" long and up to 3 1/2" wide, have thin, waxy, orange-yellow skin and juicy, crisp, yellow flesh when fully ripe. Slices cut in cross-section have the form of a star. Flavor ranges from very sour to mildly sweetish. May be up to 12 flat, thin, brown seeds 1/4 to 1/2" long, or none at all. Pests or diseases: Fruit flies, black beetles, stinkbugs, nematodes, anthracnose, leaf spot, and sooty mold. Uses: Accent tree, the fruits have been used as "conversation pieces". Bad Habits: Cost: $$ -- Very reasonable Propagation: Cuttings, air-layering, or seeds Sources: Morton, J. 1987. Carambola. p. 125�128. In: Fruits of Warm Climates . Julia F.

Morton, Miami, FL.; Carambola Growing in the Florida Home Landscape, document HS12 , Horticultural Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Original publication date April 1994. Revised May 2007, Jonathan H. Crane HS12/MG269: Carambola Growing in the Florida Home Landscape Carambola Growing in the Florida Home Landscape 1 Jonathan H. Crane 2 Scientific Name: Averrhoa carambola L. Common Names: carambola, star fruit (starfruit), bilimbi, and five-finger Family: Oxalidaceae Relatives: bilimbi, oxalis Origin: Southeast Asia Distribution: Carambolas are cultivated throughout many tropical and warm subtropical areas of the world. In the US, carambolas are grown commercially in southern Florida and Hawaii. In Florida, carambolas are grown commercially in Dade, Lee, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

History: Carambolas have been cultivated in southeast Asia (e.g., Malaysia, India, Sri Lanka) for centuries, and trees were introduced in Florida over 100 years ago. Fruit from the first introductions into Florida were tart. More recently, seeds and vegetative material from Thailand, Taiwan, and Malaysia have been introduced and sweet cultivars have been selected. Importance: As consumers become more familiar with carambola (also called star fruit), commercial acreage and production will increase throughout the tropical and subtropical world. Currently, the major producers include Taiwan, Malaysia, Guyana, India, Philippines, Australia, Israel, and the United States (Florida and Hawaii). Warning: People who have been diagnosed with kidney disease should not eat carambola (star fruit) unless their doctor says that it is safe for them to eat. This fruit may contain enough oxalic acid to cause a rapid decline in renal function. Description Tree The carambola tree is small to medium in height (22 to 33 ft; 7 to 10 m) and spreading (20 to 25 ft in diameter; 6 to 7.6 m), and single or multi-trunked.

Carambola trees are evergreen, although when grown in cooler locations, they lose some or all their leaves during the late winter and early spring. Trees grow rapidly in locations protected from strong winds. The mid-canopy area (3 to 7 ft high; 0.9 to 2.1 m) is the major fruit-producing area of mature trees. Leaves Carambolas have compound leaves 6 to 12 inches long (15 to 30 cm) that are arranged alternately on branches. Each leaf has 5 to 12 green leaflets 0.5 to 3.5 inches long (1.5 to 9 cm) and 0.4 to 1.8 inches wide (1 to 4.5 cm). Inflorescence (Flowers) Carambola flowers are borne on panicles on twigs, or small-diameter branches, and occasionally on larger wood. The flowers are perfect, small (3/8 inch or 1 cm in diameter) and pink to lavender in color. They have 5 petals and sepals. Depending upon the cultivar, carambola flowers have either long or short styles.

Fruit The fruit is a fleshy, 4- to 5-celled berry with a waxy surface. Fruit are 2 to 6 inches (5–15 cm) in length, with 5 (rarely 4–8) prominent longitudinal ribs. They are star-shaped in cross section. The fruit skin is thin, light to dark yellow, and smooth, with a waxy cuticle. The pulp is light to dark yellow in color, translucent, crisp, very juicy, and without fiber. Desirable varieties have an agreeable, subacid to sweet flavor. Fruit are sweetest when allowed to ripen on the tree. It takes about 60 to 75 days from fruit set to maturity depending upon variety, cultural practices, and weather. Seeds There are usually no more than 10–12 seeds per fruit and sometimes none. Seeds are edible, ¼ to ½ inch (0.6–1.3 cm) long, thin, light brown, and enclosed by a gelatinous aril. Seeds lose viability in a few days after removal from fruit.

Pollination All the flowers on a given carambola variety have either long or short styles; this condition is called heterostyly. Some carambola cultivars may require cross pollination (short-styled by long-styled cultivar or vice versa) for good fruit set and yields. However, varieties such as ‘Fwang Tung’, ‘Golden Star’ and ‘Arkin’ produce abundant crops when planted in solid blocks, indicating that the need for cross pollination by opposing stylar types is not always necessary. Other varieties such as ‘B-10’ and ‘B-17’ produce more fruit when cross pollinated with another variety. Varieties There are many cultivars; however, some may be unavailable for purchase from nurseries due to a limited amount of plant-propagation material or undesirable fruit characteristics. There are two main types of carambolas, sweet and tart. Sweet types are recommended for fresh fruit while both sweet and tart types are useful for processing and home recipes. Some tart cultivars, such as ‘Golden Star’ attain a sweet flavor if they are allowed to ripen on the tree (i.e., become golden yellow).

Environmental Conditions In Florida, carambola may be grown in warm locations along the southeastern (e.g., Merritt Island) and southwestern (e.g., Tampa Bay area) coasts, Miami-Dade, Lee, Broward, Palm Beach, Monroe, and Collier Counties, and in protected areas in Brevard, Pinellas, Highlands, and Polk Counties. The optimum environmental conditions for carambola production include warm to hot temperatures, well-drained soil, continuous access to soil moisture, and protection from wind. Temperatures Carambola trees grow best in warm to hot areas, although they also do well in warm subtropical areas that experience only occasional freezing temperatures. The range of temperatures for best growth and fruiting are 68° to 95°F; trees generally stop growing at temperatures below 65°F. Air temperatures of 30° to 32°F may kill young leaves; young trees, twigs, and mature leaves may be killed at 27° to 29°F. Small branches may be damaged at 25° to 29°F, and large branches and mature trees may be killed at temperatures of 20° to 24°F.

Symptoms of freezing damage include leaf wilting, water soaking, desiccation, and drop; stem and limb dieback; fruit drop; and tree death. Drought Carambola trees have only limited tolerance to drought. Symptoms of excessively dry soil conditions (drought) include leaf folding, leaf wilting, yellowing and browning of leaves, leaf drop, reduced flowering and fruit size, stem and limb dieback, and in severe drought, tree death. Flooding Carambola trees are moderately tolerant of excessively wet or flooded soil conditions for about 2 to 10 days depending upon tree health, air temperatures (less time when it is hot), and presence of root diseases. However, during flooding time the tree stops growing, and if wet conditions persist, symptoms of flooding develop. Symptoms of excessively wet soil conditions include leaf wilting, yellowing and browning of leaves, leaf and fruit drop, stem and limb dieback, and, if wet conditions persist, tree death. In addition, root rotting fungi may attack the root system, causing trees to decline, die back, or die. Wind Carambola trees are intolerant of constantly windy conditions.

Symptoms of wind damage include browning of leaflet margins, distorted leaflet shape, leaf drop, stem dieback, fruit scarring, stunted tree growth, reduced fruit size and fruit yields. Carambola trees that are annually pruned to limit their tree size to 12 ft or less generally will survive hurricane force winds without toppling. Salinity Carambola trees are intolerant of saline soil and water. Symptoms include browning of leaflet margins, leaf drop, stem and limb dieback, reduced fruit size, and in severe conditions tree death. High-pH Soils Carambola trees generally develop iron, magnesium, and manganese deficiencies when grown in soils with a pH above 7. Symptoms of iron deficiency are interveinal chlorosis (green veins with yellowing in between), reduced leaflet size, and, with severe deficiency, leaflets may become almost white. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include a mottling of green and yellow areas. Symptoms of manganese deficiency include reduced leaf size and yellowing. Propagation Carambola cultivars are generally grafted on seedling rootstocks.

Seedlings of 'Golden Star' appear to be better adapted to high-pH soils than are seedling rootstocks of 'Arkin'. Veneer grafting and chip budding during the time of most active growth have given good results. Actively growing, healthy carambola seedlings of ¼ inch in diameter (7 mm) are best for rootstocks. Graftwood should be taken from mature twigs on which leaves are still present and, if possible, when the buds are just beginning to grow. Alternatively, graftwood can be prepared 3 to 4 days ahead of grafting by removing the leaves. This will stimulate the buds to begin growing. Air-layering (marcottage) has not proved successful due to poor root development. Production (Crop Yields) The carambola has two major blooms in south Florida, April through May and September through October. However, some bloom may be found throughout the year. The harvest season is generally from June through February with peaks in fruit production during August through September and December through February. Usually there are a few fruits available throughout the year. Carambola trees grown in wind-protected areas may begin to produce fruit within 10 to 14 months after planting.

Generally, 10 to 40 lbs (4.5 to 18 kg) of fruit per year per tree can be expected during the first two to three years. As trees mature, fruit production will increase rapidly so that by years 5 and 6, 100 to 150 lbs (45 to 68 kg) of fruit per tree can be expected. Mature trees 7 to 12 years old may produce 250 to 350 lbs (112 to 160 kg) of fruit or more per year. Spacing Carambola trees in the home landscape should be planted 20 to 30 feet or more (7.6 to 9.1 m) away from buildings and other trees. Trees planted too close to other trees or structures may not grow normally or produce much fruit due to shading. Soils Carambola trees are well-adapted to many types of well-drained soils. Trees grow best where the soil reaction is moderately acid to neutral in pH (4.5 to 7).

In calcareous and high-pH soils (above 7), special care is required to prevent minor element deficiencies, particularly iron, manganese, and zinc (see Fertilizer section). Planting a Carambola Tree Proper planting is one of the most important steps in successfully establishing and growing a strong, productive tree. The first step is to choose a healthy nursery tree. Commonly, nursery carambola trees are grown in 3-gallon containers and trees stand 2 to 4 ft from the soil media. Large trees in smaller containers should be avoided because the root system may be "root bound." This means all the available space in the container has been filled with roots to the point that the tap root is growing along the edge of the container in a circular fashion. Root bound root systems may not grow properly once planted in the ground. Inspect the tree for insect pests and diseases, and inspect the trunk of the tree for wounds and constrictions. Select a healthy tree and water it regularly in preparation for planting in the ground. Site Selection In general, carambola trees should be planted in full sun for best growth and fruit production. Select a part of the landscape away from other trees, buildings and structures, and power lines.

Remember, carambola trees may become moderately large if not pruned to contain their size. Select the warmest area of the landscape that is protected from constant winds and does not flood (or remain wet) after typical summer rains. Planting in Sandy Soil Many areas in Florida have sandy soil. Remove a 3- to 10-ft-diameter ring of grass sod. Dig a hole 3 to 4 times the diameter and 3 times as deep as the container the carambola tree came in. Making a large hole loosens the soil next to the new tree making it easy for the roots to expand into the adjacent soil. It is not necessary to apply fertilizer, topsoil, or compost to the hole. In fact, placing topsoil or compost in the hole first and then planting on top of it is not desirable. If you wish to add topsoil or compost to the native soil, mix it with the excavated soil from making the hole in no more than a 1:1 ratio. Backfill the hole with some of the excavated soil.

Remove the tree from the container and place it in the hole so that the top of the soil media from the container is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil level. Fill soil in around the tree roots and tamp slightly to remove air pockets. Immediately water the soil around the tree and tree roots. Staking the tree with a wooden or bamboo stake is optional. However, do not use wire or nylon rope to tie the tree to the stake because they may eventually damage the tree trunk as it grows. Use a cotton or natural fiber string that will degrade slowly. Planting in Rockland Soil Many areas in Miami-Dade County have a very shallow soil, and several inches below the soil surface is a hard, calcareous bedrock. Remove a 3- to 10-ft-diameter ring of grass sod. Make a hole 3 to 4 times the diameter and 3 times as deep as the container the tree came in. To dig a hole, use a pick and digging bar to break up the rock or contract with a company that has augering equipment or a backhoe. Plant the tree as described in the previous section.

Planting on a Mound Many areas in Florida are within 7 ft or so of the water table and experience occasional flooding after heavy rains. To improve plant survival, consider planting fruit trees on a 3- to 4-ft-high by 4- to 10-ft-diameter mound of native soil. After the mound is made, dig a hole 3 to 4 times the diameter and 3 times as deep as the container the carambola tree came in. In areas where the bedrock nearly comes to the surface (rockland soil), follow the recommendations for the previous section. In areas with sandy soil, follow the recommendations from the section on planting in sandy soil. Care of Carambola Trees in the Home Landscape A calendar outlining the month-to-month cultural practices for carambola is shown in Table 2. Fertilizer Young trees should receive ¼ to ½ pound (113 to 226 g) of a mixed fertilizer containing nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg) every 30 to 60 days.

As trees mature, the fertilizer rate should increase (1 to 5 lbs; 0.45 to 2.3 kg) with an application frequency of 4 to 6 times per year. Fertilizer mixtures containing 6-8% nitrogen, 2–4% available phosphoric acid, 6–8% potash and 3–4% magnesium are satisfactory. In acid to neutral-pH soils, micronutrients such as man- ganese, zinc, and iron may be applied in dry applications to the soil or in a liquid form and sprayed onto the leaves. Three to 6 applications should be made per year. Trees growing in high-pH or calcareous soils should receive 4 to 6 foliar applications per year of a micronutrient mix which includes zinc and manganese. Iron deficiency may be corrected by 1 to 2 yearly soil applications of iron sulfate for trees growing in neutral or low-pH soils and 4 to 6 soil drench applications of chelated iron (specifically formulated for calcareous soils) to high-pH soils (pH above 7). Irrigation (Watering) Young trees should be irrigated regularly to facilitate tree establishment and growth.

Once trees begin to bear (1 to 2 years after planting), trees should be irrigated regularly from flowering through harvest. Carambola Trees and Lawn Care Carambola trees in the home landscape are susceptible to trunk injury caused by lawn mowers and weed eaters. Maintain a grass-free area 2 to 5 or more feet away from the trunk of the tree. Never hit the tree trunk with lawn mowing equipment and never use a weed eater near the tree trunk. Mechanical damage to the trunk of the tree will weaken the tree and, if severe enough, can cause dieback or kill the tree. Roots of mature carambola trees spread beyond the drip-line of the tree canopy and heavy fertilization of the lawn next to carambola trees is not recommended because it may reduce fruiting and or fruit quality. The use of lawn sprinkler systems on a timer may result in over watering and cause carambola trees to decline. This is because too much water too often applied causes root rot.

Mulch Mulching carambola trees in the home landscape helps retain soil moisture, reduces weed problems next to the tree trunk, helps to prolong warm soil conditions (beneficial to carambola trees) and improves the soil near the surface. Mulch with a 2- to 6-inch (5–15 cm) layer of bark, wood chips, or similar mulch material. Keep mulch 8 to 12 inches (20–30 cm) from the trunk Insect Pests Carambola trees are attacked by a number of scale insects including plumose (Morganella longispina) and philephedra (Philephedra tuberculosa) scales, which attack leaves and twigs, causing defoliation and stem dieback. The diaprepes weevil (Diaprepes abbreviatus) causes damage to the roots, which may lead to root and shoot dieback. Fruit damage caused by stink bugs (Nezara sp.) and squash bugs (Acanthocephala sp.) results in pinhole-sized markings on the fruit surface and dry areas of the flesh under the puncture wounds.

This may lead to infection by fungi which cause soft rot of the fruit. Fruit blotch miner (Lepidoptera: Gracillaridae) causes a superficial damage to the waxy cuticle and can be identified by meandering brownish colored trails on the fruit surface. Brown scales (Coccus hesperidum), red-banded thrips (Selenothrips rubrocinctus) and a weevil (Myctides imberbis) have also been observed feeding on carambola fruit. Birds, opossums, and raccoons may attack fruit especially early in the season. Their damage can be identified by the V-shaped marks left on the ribs of the fruit. For more information and control measures, consult your local UF/IFAS Extension agricultural agent. Diseases Reddish colored leaf spot diseases are caused by various fungi (Cercospora averrhoa, Corynespora cassiicola, Phomopsis sp., Gloesporium sp. and Phyllosticta sp.). Observations indicate that these leaf spot fungi are more common on environmentally stressed or nutritionally deficient trees and occur on older leaves that normally abscise (drop) during the winter and early spring.

No control is necessary for these leaf spotting fungi. Twigs and limbs may be attacked by red alga (Cephaleuros virescens). Symptoms include rough, circular, greenish-grey or rusty-red areas and shoot dieback. Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension agent for current control of red alga. Ripe fruit that is injured may be attacked by the fruit-rotting fungus (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides), which causes anthracnose. A superficial blackish discoloration on fruit (sometimes called “sooty mold” or “sooty blotch”) caused by Gloeodes pomigena may be found on fruit surfaces. Generally, no control is warranted for these fruit diseases. The fungus Pythium splendens has been identified as the cause of root rot and a general tree decline syndrome. Decline symptoms include loss of tree vigor, leaf drop, twig, shoot, and root dieback, and reduced fruit size and production. For more information and control measures, consult your local UF/IFAS Extension agricultural agent.

Pruning Tree Training and Maintenance During the first 1 to 2 years after planting, young trees should be pruned by tipping shoots in excess of 2 to 3 ft to increase branching. If desired, trees may be trained to a modified central leader or open center configuration. Mature trees may be selectively pruned to maintain trees at 6 to 12 ft (1.8 to 3.6 m) in height. Selectively removing a few upper limbs back to their origins (crotches) each year will help prevent the loss of the lower tree canopy due to shading by the upper canopy. In addition, maintaining a smaller tree facilitates tree care and fruit harvest, makes it easier to spray the tree, and greatly reduces possible storm damage. Do not remove lower tree branches. Pruning to Produce Off-Season Fruit Carambola trees are unique in that once a shoot and limb develop the ability to flower, they can flower repeatedly. Shoots gain the ability to flower after about 3 months of age.

Pruning the willow-like long shoots (“whips”) or selecting a small diameter limb and removing all the lateral shoots from this limb to their branch collars will induce flowering in about 21 days and fruit approximately 70–80 days later. Pruning during August may result in fruit during October. Pruning during November–December may result in fruit during February–April or June. This delay in fruit production is because cool temperatures during the fall and winter may prevent fruit set during January to March; however, generally the shoots will continue to flower until fruit is set. Flowering and fruiting may also be induced on whips by bending them from an upright position to a lateral position, clipping off the last 12 to 18 inches of growth, and clipping the leaves off but leaving a small (1/3 inch) piece of the petiole (leaf stem). Removing Fruit to Produce Off-Season Fruit Removing young fruit from trees during November–December will help to retain carambola leaves on the tree and may result in early spring flowering and fruit in June. Removing young fruit along with selective pruning described previously may induce flowering and off-season fruit production.

Harvest, Ripening, and Storage Carambola fruit do not increase in sugar content after picking and so for optimum sweetness and flavor should be picked when fruit turn from green to a yellow color in the furrow between the ribs while the tips of the ribs (fins) remain green. Fruit may be stored in plastic bags for up to about 21 days in the refrigerator. Uses and Nutritional Value Carambolas are primarily consumed as a fresh fruit. They may be used in fruit salads, as a garnish for meat, salad, and casserole dishes or they may be processed into pickles, sauces, wines, and jellies. The fruit may also be canned, preserved, and dried. The fruit is a good source of potassium (Table 4). Carambola trees are an excellent tree for the home landscape. The foliage is green and attractive, and flowers and fruit are beautiful. The fruit is valued for its appearance and unusual shape. Tables Starfruit | Infopedia Starfruit Mousedeer Mousedeer form the Tragulidae family of small even-toed ungulates in the mammalian order Artiodactyla. Other artiodactyl ...

Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola), or Carambola, is a tropical fruit native to the Malayan archipelago and belongs to the family Oxalidaceae.1 With its sweet-sour taste, the starfruit is a popular fruit in Singapore, most often eaten raw. The starfruit displays a star shape when cut, thus its popular name. Origins and distribution Carambola supposedly has its origins in the local region, found on the islands of Java up to the Philippines.2 From the Malay Archipelago, it spread to other parts of the world.3 The Portuguese first came across the fruit in India before they encountered it in Malaya. It was called carambola in India in the Malayalam language, and this became the name used by the Portuguese to refer to the fruit.4 The word “carambola” is derived from the Sanskrit karmaranga, meaning “food appetiser”.

The Portuguese took the fruit from India to Africa and South America.5 When it reached Europe in the 18th century, it was considered a fashionable fruit and was served only in exclusive restaurants.6 In Malaysia, the main areas of cultivation are in Johor, Selangor, Kedah, Perak, Melaka and Negri Sembilan.7 Many varieties of the tree are found, with fruits ranging from sour to sweet. Sour carambola plants are found commonly in the wild, while the sweeter varieties are the ones that are cultivated. The plants are propagated asexually by the Javanese through budding seedlings and marcotting.8 Description The carambola shrub grows up to 12 m in height in cultivation, but in the wild it grows much higher. The trunk is short and crooked. It branches near the base and has an irregular dense crown. The bark, greyish-brown to dark grey, is smooth. The leaves of the tree are small, measuring between 15 to 25 cm in length. They are arranged alternately and grow along a horizontal plane.

When young, seven to nine leaflets are arranged together and they seem sensitive to touch or external stimuli.9 Carambola flowers are produced in a tuft measuring two to three cm long, and are pentamerous. The starfruit is a large, fleshy berry of a rich amber colour when ripe. When cut cross-sectionally, it is shaped like a star, hence its common name. It is a very juicy fruit with a sweet-sour taste.10 Usage and potential Food The starfruit is usually consumed fresh or made into a refreshing juice. The Malays use it in making tarts, jams, pickle it as sunti, salt it as achar and boil to make it into a syrup called manisan. The Javanese use the unique-tasting flowers in salads.11 Carambola is also processed into jellies, sweets and cordial concentrates.12 Medicine A related species of carambola, A. bilimbi, is used commonly in traditional Malay medicine. Sometimes carambola tree parts are substituted for parts of A. bilimbi, though this not a widely practised feature.

The Malays crush the leaves and shoots and use it as application for chickenpox, ringworm and headaches. Vomiting is treated by giving a decoction of the leaves and fruits, while in India and China, the roots were made into a decoction with other ingredients and used to treat poisoning. A conserve of the fruit is used to treat drunk people for bad bilious attacks and diarrhoea. Carambola fruit juice is used as a body coolant and drunk by those suffering from fever. In Indochina, lacquer workers rubbed the flowers over the itchy or sore parts of their skin, a condition arising from exposure to lacquer. The inner portion of the bark was used along with sandalwood as a powder application for prickly heat.

The leaves, roots and stem of carambola tree is believed to contain hydrocyanic acid.13 Other uses The juice of the fruit, being acidic, can be used to clean metal surfaces.14 Variant names Malay names: belimbing manis (sweet variety), belimbing besi, belimbing sagi (angle variety), belimbing sayor (green-vegetable variety), belimbing batu (rock variety) (Malaysia), blimbing alas, blimbing manis, blimbing legi, blimbing wana, balingbing, chalingching amis, balimbing manis (Indonesia).15 Author Naidu Ratnala Thulaja References 1. Othman Yaacob & Subhadrabandhu, S. (1995). The production of economic fruits in south-east Asia . New York: Oxford University Press, p. 171. (Call no.: RSING 634.0959 OTH) 2. Burkill, I. H. (2002). A dictionary of the economic products of the Malay Peninsula . Kuala Lumpur: Ministry of Agriculture, p. 273.

(Call no.: RSING 634.909595 BUR) 3. Othman Yaacob & Subhadrabandhu, S. (1995). The production of economic fruits in south-east Asia . New York: Oxford University Press, p. 171. (Call no.: RSING 634.0959 OTH) 4. Burkill, I. H. (2002). A dictionary of the economic products of the Malay Peninsula . Kuala Lumpur: Ministry of Agriculture, p. 273. (Call no.: RSING 634.909595 BUR 5. Manda, H., et al. (2012). A complete review on Averrhoa Carambola. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 1(1), 17–33. Retrieved 2016, April 10 from website: 6. Averrhoa carambola. (2006). Bioweb, University of Wisconsin. Retrieved 2016, April 10 from University of Wisconsin website: 7.

Technical document for market access on star fruit (Carambola). (2004, October). Crop Protection and Plant Quarantine Services Division, Department of Agriculture, Malaysia. Retrieved 2016, April 10 from International Plant Protection Convention website: 8. Burkill, I. H. (2002). A dictionary of the economic products of the Malay Peninsula . Kuala Lumpur: Ministry of Agriculture, p. 273. (Call no.: RSING 634.909595 BUR) 9. Othman Yaacob & Subhadrabandhu, S. (1995). The production of economic fruits in south-east Asia . New York: Oxford University Press, p. 171. (Call no.: RSING 634.0959 OTH) 10. Othman Yaacob & Subhadrabandhu, S. (1995). The production of economic fruits in south-east Asia . New York: Oxford University Press, p. 171. (Call no.: RSING 634.0959 OTH) 11. Burkill, I. H.

(2002). A dictionary of the economic products of the Malay Peninsula . Kuala Lumpur: Ministry of Agriculture, p. 274. (Call no.: RSING 634.909595 BUR) 12. Technical document for market access on star fruit (Carambola). (2004, October). Crop Protection and Plant Quarantine Services Division, Department of Agriculture, Malaysia. Retrieved 2016, April 10 from International Plant Protection Convention website: Balimbing / Averrhoa carambola L./ Star fruit / Yang tao: Philippine Herbal Therapy/ Philippine Alternative Medicine - Studies indicate the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids and tannins. - Seeds yield an alkaloid, harmaline, C13H14N20. - Phytochemical screening of leaf extract yielded alkaloids, glycosides, phenol, tannins, flavonoids, protein and diterpenes.

(see study below) (29) - Nutrient analysis of raw, fresh star fruit (per 100 g) showed: energy 31 Kcal, carbohydrates 6.73 g, protein 1.04 g, total fat 0.33g, cholesterol 0 mg, dietary fiber 2.80g; (Vitamins) folates 12 µg, niacin 0.367 mg, pyridoxine 0.017 mg, riboflavin 0.016 mg, thiamin 0.014 mg, vitamin A 61 IU, vitamin C 34.4 mg, vitamin E 0.15 mg, vitamin K 0 µg; (Electrolytes) sodium 2 mg, potassium 133 mg; (Minerals) calcium 3 mg, iron 0.08 mg, magnesium 10 mg, phosphorus 12 mg, zinc 0.12 mg.

(Source: USDA National Nutrient data base) (32) - Study on fruit extract showed total phenolic (1.216 mgGAE/g extract), flavonoids (767 mgCE/g extract), proanthocyanidin 586 mgCE/g extract, and condensed tannins (18.35 mgCE/g extract. (see study below) (33) Properties - Vermifuge, laxative, refrigerant, antiscorbutic, febrifuge, sialogogue, antiphlogistic, stimulant, emmenagogue, anodyne, emetic. - Studies have suggest hypocholesterolemic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, nephrotoxic, neurotoxic, negative inotropic and chronotropic properties. - Fruit is considered laxative, refrigerant, antiscorbutic, appetite stimulant, febrifuge, antidysenteric, sialagogue, and antiphlogistic. - Seed regarded as narcotic, anodyne, emetic and emmenagogue.

Parts used Uses Edibility / Culinary / Nutritional - Edible fruit is a source of iron (low in calcium) and vitamins B and C, oxalate and potassium. - Because of high potassium content, the fruit should be excluded from the diets of patients with renal failure. - In the Philippines, the fruit is eaten with or without salt; the juice used for seasoning. - Fruit used in making pickles and sweets. - In Java, flowers are used in salads. Folkloric - Decoction of leaves used for aphthous stomatitis and angina. - In Tonkin, flowers are used as vermifuge. - Boiled flowers used to expel worms: 50 gms to a pint of boiling water; drunk in normal doses. - Malays use a poultice of crushed shoots or leaves used externally for headaches, chickenpox, and ringworm. - The Chinese and Annamites use the flowers for cutaneous affections; also use the fruit as an eye salve for ophthalmic affections. - Leaves applied externally for fevers. - Fruit syrup used as cooling drink for fevers. - Decoction of leaves and fruit used to arrest vomiting.

- Fruit is laxative; also used for hematemesis, melena and other forms of hemorrhages. - Decoction of fruit, 50 gms to a pint of boiling water, 4-5 glasses a day used for bleeding piles. - Juice of fresh fruit for affections of the eyes. - Seed is used for asthma and colic: Powdered seeds, 10 gms to a cup of warm water, drunk 4 times daily. - In Brazil, used for headaches, eczema, vomiting, coughing and hangovers. Also, used as appetite stimulant, diuretic, antidiarrheal, and febrifuge. - In India, the ripe fruit is used to stop hemorrhages and relieve hemorrhoidal bleeding. Khasi tribe of Meghalaya use the ripe fruit in the treatment of jaundice. - The dried fruit or juice used for fevers. - Plant used as reproductive organ stimulant for both males and females. In females it is used to increase the flow of milk and menstrual fluid. It acts as an emmenagogue; sometimes used as abortive. - In Ayurveda, ripe fruit is considered tonic and digestive; causes biliousness.

Dried fruit is used for fevers. - Seed regarded as narcotic, anodyne, emetic, and emmenagogue. Seed powder, in doses of 1/2 to 3 drams or as watery infusion, considered a good anodyne in asthma, colic, and jaundice. - In Bangladesh, leaves and fruits used in treatment of diabetes. Others - Cleaning: The acid type carambola dissolves tarnish and rust, occasionally used for cleaning and polishing metal. - Stain remover: Like kamias, fruit juice is used in washing clothes and to remove spots and stains. Contains potassium oxalate which is used for dyeing. Studies • Cardiac Effects / Negative Inotropic and Chronotropic Effects: The study showed that the A. carambola extract is an agent that strongly depresses the heart rate and the myocardial contractile force. Although the active compound has not been identified, its action on the L-type Ca2+ channels is important to explain the mechanism of action of this plant on the mammalian atrial myocardium.

(1) • Fatal outcome after ingestion of star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) in uremic patients: The study warns that patients with renal failure who ingest star fruit may develop neurological symptoms and run the risk of death in severe cases. Hemodialysis, especially on a daily basis, is the ideal treatment for star fruit intoxication. (2) • Neurotoxicity: Report of study on 32 uraemic patients who ingested star fruit. Most common presenting symptoms were persistent hiccups, vomiting, mental confusion, psychomotor agitation, insomnia, paresthesias and seizures. Ideal treatment was daily hemodialysis.(4) • Antioxidant: Research reports the residues from star fruit juicing process is a rich and excellent source of extractable phenolic antioxidants. (6) • Convulsant / Neurotoxic Fraction: Study yielded a nonproteic neurotoxic fraction from the star fruit Averrhoa carambola. It was shown to inhibit GABA binding in a concentration-dependent manner. It produced behavioral changes in animals, including seizures - tonic-clonic to status epilepticus.

(7) • Anti-Ulcerogernic Effect: Water-alcohol extract of A carambola showed significant anti-ulcer activity in the acidified-ethanol-induced ulcer model in rats, with no activity in the indomethacin and acute stress ulcerogenic models. • Human Cytochrome P450 Inhibition: Fruit juice-drug interaction has been a concern since the discovery of the grapefruit juice-drug interaction. Other fruits have been found to inhibit CYP3A in vitro. Study showed star fruit juice inhibited the seven CYP isoforms tested, with the strongest inhibitory effect against CYP2A6 and the least towards CYP3A4. (8) • Hypotensive Effect: Study of aqueous extract of Averrhoa carambola in isolated rat aorta demonstrated hypotensive effects, in part, attributed to inhibition of the contractile mechanisms involving extracellular Ca++ influx. (12) • Topical Anti-Inflammatory: Study in mice evaluated the topical anti-inflammatory effects of various extracts of leaves, fractions and flavonoids on skin inflammation. The ethyl acetate fraction was the most effective.

(13) • Antioxidant / Antimicrobial: Nitric oxide radicals generated from sodium nitroprusside was inhibited by A. carambola fruit extracts at various stages of ripening. Methanolic and water extracts of fruits showed antimicrobial activity against E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Staph aureus and Bacillus cereus. (14) • Hypoglycemic: Treatment of male Sprague Dawley rats with fruit pulp for eight weeks significantly decreased blood sugar levels. The change was insignificant in female rats, which was attributed to hormonal changes. (16) • Analgesic / Fruit Extract: Treatment investigated the analgesic effect of a fruit extract of A. carambola in Swiss albino mice by acetic acid-writhing test (peripheral action) and radiant tail flick test (central action). Results showed significant central and peripheral analgesic activities. (17) • Antioxidant / Antibacterial / Cytotoxicity / Bark: Study evaluated a petroleum ether of bark of Averrhoa carambola for antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. Phytochemical screening yielded flavonoids, carbohydrates, glycosides and steroids.

The extract exhibited good antibacterial action, especially against S. typhi, P aeruginosa, E coli and B megaterium. There was concentration dependent DPPH radical scavenging activity. On brine shrimp lethality testing, the LC50 was calculated at 19.95. (18) • Anthelmintic / Leaf: Study evaluated anthelmintic potential of a leaf extract of A. carambola against Pheretima posthuma as test worm. Results showed significant paralysis and death of worms especially at higher concentrations. (19) • Electrophysiologic Effects: Study evaluated the electrophysiological changes produced by an aqueous extract of leaves on isolated right atrium preparations of guinea pig heart. The extract produced various kinds of atrioventricular blocs, increased QT interval, increased QRS duration, and decrease cardiac rate. The results caution against the use of such extracts because it can promote electrical and mechanical changes in the heart.

(20) • Prophylactic / Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Study evaluated the protective roles of fruit of Averrhoa carambola on diethylnitrosamine-(DENA)-induced and CCl4-promoted liver cancer in Swiss albino mice. Results showed considerable reduction in tumor incidence, tumor yield, and tumor burden. There was also a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation. Results shows a prophylactic roles against hepatocellular carcinoma in mice, and suggests a potential as a chemopreventive natural supplement against cancer. (21) • Radioprotective / Antioxidant / Leaves: Study evaluated the radioprotective efficacy of ethanolic extract of leaves of Averrhoa carambola. Results showed supplementation with Averrhoa carambola has potent antoxidant activities and probably act as radioprotective against gamma radiation induced oxidative damage. (22) • Oxalic Acid Content: Oxalic acid is the principal acid in A. carambola and A. bilimbi. It is a food toxicant which may decrease the availability of dietary calcium by forming poorly absorbed calcium-oxalate complex.

Study revealed higher levels of oxalic acid in sour green carambola (5.5 - 10.9 mg/g) than in sweet fruit (0.5 -1.7 mg/g). Oxalic acid levels in both sweet and sour carambola decreased as the fruit matured, with variations from season to season. (23) • Anticoagulant Activity: Study of an ethanolic extract of leaves and fruits in diabetic male Wistar rats showed very significant anticoagulant effect, attributed to the high level of oxalic acid acting as a metal cation chelator, presumably binding to blood calcium, removing the calcium ion from the blood, and inhibiting the clotting process. (24) • Hepatoprotective Activity / CCl4-Induced Injury / Stems: Study of a stem ethanolic extract showed hepatoprotective activity in CCl4-induced hepatic damage in rat. Silymarin was used as standard. (25) • Fruit Juice Effect on Alkaline Phosphatase: Study evaluated the in vivo effect of star fruit juice on activity of alkaline phosphates in female Sprague Dawley rats.

Results showed star fruit juice at different storage times selectively induced the activity of alkaline phosphatase in rat liver but not in the heart and kidney. (26) • Antihyperglycemic / Leaves: Study evaluated antihyperglycemic activity of methanol extracts of leaves of three plants: A. carambola, F. hispida, and S. samarangense. All three showed reductions in blood glucose in mice. Glibenclamide was used as standard. (27) • Hepatoprotective / Antioxidant / Leaves: Study of leaves of A. carambola on carbon tetrachloride induced hepatic damage in mice demonstrated hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity . Pretreatment of extract significantly controlled the levels of serum biochemical and antioxidant enzymes. (28) • In Vitro Cytotoxicity / MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line / Leaves: Study of leaf extract for in vitro cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) showed an IC50 value of 170.326 µg/ml.

(see constituents above) (29) • Attenuation of Fluoride Induced Toxicity / Fruit: Study evaluated the potential of star fruit as dietary supplement in attenuating the fluoride induced hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia and oxidative stress in a rat model. Diet supplementation with star fruit powder significantly restored fluoride induced elevation of glucose, lipids, and oxidative stress. The activity could be due to the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins, phytosterols, ascorbic acid and fibers in the fruit. (30) • Anti-Browning Effect of Honey and L-Cysteine on Fresh Cut Fruit: Study evaluated the anti-browning effect of L-cysteine and honey through PPO activity and total phenolic content in carambola slices. Overall quality analysis showed honey (10%) enriched with L-cysteine (0.5%) significantly extended the shelf life of fresh-cut carambola. Honey can be used as edible coating to maintain fresh-like appearance of carambola slices up to 12 days.

(31) • Tumor Inhibitory / Antiagiogenic / Proapoptotic / Fruit: Study evaluated the tumor inhibitory activity of Averrhoa carambola fruit extract on EAC cells administered in mice targeting angiogenesis and apoptosis. Results showed potent proapoptotic and antiangiogenic activity, which was attributed to catechin, epicatechin and ferulic acid present in the extract. (see constituents above) (33) Toxicity / Caution ! • Report of toxicity and death in fruit consumption by patients with renal failure. Star fruit intoxication may be harmful and even life threatening in uremic patients. The neurotoxicity is classified into three levels of intoxication: (1) Mild, with hiccups, vomiting and insomnia. (2) Moderate, with psychomotor agitation, numbness and mental confusion, and (3) Severe intoxication, with worsening confusion, coma, seizures, hypotension and shock, in various confusing clinical presentations. Daily dialysis, is the ideal treatment and most efficient way of removing the neurotoxicity.

• High Potassium Content: Because of its high potassium content, star fruit should be one of the food substances that should be excluded from the diet of patients with renal failure. Availability Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on the guinea pig atrium of extracts obtained from Averrhoa carambola L. leaves / C.M.L. Vasconcelos, M.S. Araújo, B.A. Silva and E.A. Conde-Garcia / doi: 10.1590/S0100-879X2005000700015 (2) Fatal outcome after ingestion of star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) in uremic patients / CHANG J.-M.; HWANG S.-J. et al (3) PHARMACOGNOSTIC EVALUATION AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA L.

FRUIT / Journal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology 2 (2) 51-54 (2008) / ISSN : 0973-4643 (4) Intoxication by star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) in 32 uraemic patients: treatment and outcome / Neto M.M.1; da Costa J.A.C; Garcia-Cairasco N; Netto J.C; Nakagawa B.; Dantas M. / Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, Volume 18, Number 1, January 2003 , pp. 120-125(6) (5) Sorting Averrhoa names / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE (11) Preliminary Studies on Gastric Anti-ulcerogenic Effects of Averrhoa carambola in Rats / Simone T Goncalves, Silmara Baroni, Fernando Bersani-Amado et al / ta Farm.

Bonaerense 25 (2): 245-7 (2006) (12) Hypotensive effect of aqueous extract of Averrhoa carambola L. (Oxalidaceae) in rats: an in vivo and in vitro approach / Soncini R, Santiago MB, Orlandi L, Moraes GO, Peloso AL et al / J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Jan 27;133(2):353-7. Epub 2010 Oct 16. (13) Analysis of the Potential Topical Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Averrhoa carambola L. in Mice / Daniela Almeida Cabrini, Henrique Hunger Moresco, Priscila Imazu, Cintia Delai da Silva et al / Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Vol 2011 (2011) / doi:10.1093/ecam/neq026 (14) Antioxidant And Antimicrobial Activities Of Averrhoa carambola L.

Fruits / Sujata Wakte, Darshana Patil, Avinash Patil and Anita Phatak / Blatter Herbarium - St. Xavier's College (15) Sorting Averrhoa names / Authorised by Prof. Snow Barlow / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE / Copyright © 1997 - 2000 The University of Melbourne. (16) A Preliminary Study on the Hypoglycaemic Effect of Averrhoa carambola (Star Fruit) in Rats / L.C.A. Gunasekara, P.H.P. Fernando and R. Sivakanesan / Proceedings of the Peradeniya University Research Sessions, Sri Lanka, Vol. 16, 24th November 2011 (17) ANALGESIC ACTIVITY OF THE FRUIT EXTRACT OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA / Biswa Nath Da* and Muniruddin Ahmed / Int. J. LifeSc. Bt & Pharm. Res.

2012 (18) A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON ANTIOXIDANT, ANTIBACTERIAL, CYTOTOXIC AND PHYTOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA / Joysree Das, Zulon Datta, Ayan Saha, Suza Mohammad Nur, Prosenjit Barua, Md.Mominur Rahman, KaziAshfak Ahmed , Mohammad Mostofa, Rabiul Hossain, Adnan Mannan* / Internation Journal of Bioassays, Vol 2, No 5, 2013 (19) IN VITRO ANTHELMINTIC ACTIVITY OF LEAF EXTRACT OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA AGAINST PHERETIMA POSTHUMA / Anisha Shah*, Anuja B. Raut*, Prof. Akshay Baheti, Dr. B.S. Kuchekar / Pharmacologyonline 1: 524-527 (2011) (20) Electrophysiological effects of the aqueous extract of Averrhoa carambola L.

leaves on the guinea pig heart / Free Library (21) Prophylactic Role of Averrhoa carambola (Star Fruit) Extract against Chemically Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Swiss Albino Mice / Ritu Singh, Jyoti Sharma, and P. K. Goyal / Advances in Pharmacological Sciences, Volume 2014 (2014) / (22) Star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L.): From traditional uses to pharmacological activities Sultan Ayesh / Mohammed SAGHIR, Amirin SADIKUN, Kooi-Yeong KHAW and Vikneswaran MURUGAIYAH / 2013 Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas 12 (3): 209 - 219 (22) EVALUATION OF RADIO PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA LEAVES EXTRACT IN WISTAR RATS / Arunachalam Kumar, Suchetha Kumari N., Kavitha K. & Rojin T.S.

/ Nitte University Journal of Health Science, Vol. 4, No.2, June 2014 (23) OXALIC ACID CONTENT OF CARAMBOLA AND BILIMBI / J. Joseph and G.

Mendonca, Department of Chemistry, University of Guyana Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana / January 1991 (24) Anticoagulant Activity of Averrhoa bilimbi Linn in Normal and Alloxan- Induced Diabetic Rats / Nurafifah Daud, Harita Hashim* and Nurdiana Samsulrizal / The Open Conference Proceedings Journal, 2013, 4, (Suppl-2, M6) 21-26 21 (25) HEPATOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA STEM ETHANOLIC EXTRACT ON CCL4 INDUCED LIVER DAMAGE IN RATS / CHINNA ESWARAIAH M*, SINDHU NETTEM, DIPANKAR B, MANASA N / International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol 5, Issue 4, 2013 (26) AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA (STAR FRUIT) INDUCES HEPATIC ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE ACTIVITY IN RATS / Chin J. H., Teh C. C., Z.

Y. Khoo, Shamala F. / International Journal of Biomedical and Advance Research, Vol 1, No 5, 2010 (27) Antihyperglycemic Activities of Leaves of Three Edible Fruit Plants (Averrhoa carambola, Ficus hispida and Syzygium samarangense) of Bangladesh /S Shahreen, J Banik, A Hafiz, S Rahman, AT Zaman, A Shoyeb, MH Chowdhury, M Rahmatullah / African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, Vol 9, No 2 (2012) (28) LEAF EXTRACT OF AVERRHOA CARAMBOLA L. CONFINES THE OXIDATIVE STRESS AND CONFERS HEPATOPROTECTION IN ALBINO MICE / Sandipan Mazumder1, Shuvasish Choudhury / IAJPR.

2013; 3(10): 8388-8393 (29) In vitro Cytotoxicity, Phytochemistry and GC-MS analysis of Averrhoa carambola (leaf) against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line / Poongodi, T and Dr. Nazeema, T. H. / International Journal of Current Research (30) Antidotal activity of Averrhoa carambola (Star fruit) on fluoride induced toxicity in rats / Rupal A. VASANT, A. V. R. L. NARASIMHACHARYA / Interdiscip Toxicol. 2014; Vol. 7(2): 103–110. doi: 10.2478/intox-2014-0014 (31) Effect of honey and L-cysteine as antioxidants on the quality attributes of fresh-cut carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) stored at two different temperatures / Sonu Sharma, T.V.

Ramana Rao / International Journal of Postharvest Technology and Innovation, List of Issues, Volume 3, Issue 4 / DOI: 10.1504/IJPTI.2013.060269 (32) Star fruit (carambola) nutrition facts / Nutrition-and-You (33)

Question: What is the common name of the carambola?
Answer: Star Fruit