Starfruit
Averrhoa carambola
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Aug 4, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Starfruit
Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola) is a tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia, bearing distinctive ribbed, waxy fruits that produce a star shape when sliced crosswise. The fruits range from tart to sweet depending on cultivar and ripen from green to golden yellow. Starting at $76.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Fall
- Flower Color
- Pink, Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season.
Retains foliage through winter. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Carambola requires full sun (at least 8 hours daily) to fruit well. In NE Florida, plant in the warmest, most frost-sheltered microclimate available — south- or southeast-facing locations near a structure provide the best cold protection.
Carambola is not drought tolerant; water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruit development. Reduce irrigation in winter. In NE Florida's sandy soils, deep watering 2–3 times per week during dry spells is appropriate.
Plant in well-drained, mildly acidic soil amended with compost. Fertilize young trees every 30–60 days with a complete fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium; mature trees benefit from 3–4 applications per year. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of fruit.
Similar needs
Calamondin
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Mandarin
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Pomegranate
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American Persimmon
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Finger Lime
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Atamasco Lily
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Common questions
Is Starfruit a good plant for St. Augustine?
Starfruit is a fruit tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 20-30 feet × 20-25 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.