Plant Identification Learning Module:
Fruits & Nuts

Carambola (Averrhoa carambola)

The carambola tree is small and slow growing with a round canopy. Leaves are odd–pinnately compound with individual leaflets ranging from one to three inches in length. The fruit is egg-shaped with rounded ends. Five (rarely four or six) prominent long ribs give the fruit a star shape when cut in cross section. The thin skinned fruit is yellow, crisp and very juicy with an acid flavor. The number of seed varies from none to about ten per fruit. Seeds are long, thin and light brown. Carambola flowers are borne on panicles on twigs. They are perfect, up to 1/2 inch diameter, and pink to lavender in color. They have five petals and sepals. The carambola is grown in Central and South Florida.

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