1. Starfruit (Carambola)

2. Starfruit
Carambola is the fruit of a tree native to Indonesia, India, Moluccas and Sri Lanka. It has been cultivated throughout the tropics for hundreds of years.
When a carambola is cut across the middle, the slice resembles a five pointed star, giving the fruit its common name, starfruit.

3. Starfruit
Starfruit is classified as a subtropical fruit because the mature trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 27ºF. for short periods. However, the young plants can be killed at 32ºF. & harmed by frost.
The tree is a slow growing, short-trucked evergreen with a bushy canopy.

4. Starfruit
In the United States star fruit flourishes in south Florida and Hawaii because of their warm climate. It is available July through February.

5. Starfruit
Starfruit is best eaten when ripe, when they are yellow with a light shade of green. It will also have brown ridges at the five edges and feel firm. A overripe fruit will be yellow with brown spots.

6. Starfruit
Starfruit is eaten whole, sliced and served in salad, used as a garnish, or cooked in pudding, tarts, stews and curries.
It is rich in fiber, antioxidants & vitamin C, while being low in sugar & sodium.

7. Starfruit
Starfruit, like grapefruit, contains oxalic acid, which can be harmful to individuals suffering from kidney failure or under kidney dialysis. In addition, it cannot be consumed by individuals taking certain medications as it increases the effective dosage within the body.

8. Starfruit Children’s Books About Starfruit
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Children’s Books About Starfruit
Under the Starfruit Tree: Folktales from Vietnam
by Alice M. Terada
The Magical Starfruit Tree
by Rosalind Wang
Children of the Dragon
by Sherry Garland