The Showstopping Tree That Boasts Pretty Flowers Before Bearing Star-Shaped Fruit

Gardeners who live in more tropical regions, including USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12, can grow a variety of fruit trees that thrive under these conditions. In fact, the array of different fruits that can be grown in the tropics will astound and delight you, especially if you're always in search of something more exotic to plant in your garden. One showstopping tree you should look out for is the star fruit (Averrhoa carambola). Not only is it visually outstanding with its large leaves and pretty flowers, but it also produces the most delectable star-shaped fruits, which you're going to love. It's one of those fast-growing fruit trees you'll want to plant in your yard.

The star fruit tree, or carambola, can reach a height of up to 33 feet with an equally impressive spread of up to 25 feet. It can live for 40 years if grown under optimum conditions. The leaves on this tree are large, medium green, and light sensitive. This means they'll fold up at night. Touching the leaves might also cause them to fold. 

Even more interesting is the fact that the attractive, rose-colored, fragrant flowers can bloom throughout the year. These are followed by the most unusual star-shaped yellow fruits. The flesh of this fruit is crisp like an apple with a slightly sweet, acidic taste. (In case these attract fruit flies, try this trick to repel fruit flies with a favorite alcoholic beverage.)

The carambola is cold- and frost-sensitive. It will stop growing if temperatures drop below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for a healthy, thriving tree is between 68 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. You want to plant it in a sunny spot that's not exposed to strong winds. While this tree can handle a variety of soil types, it will really enjoy growing in organically rich soil that can retain some moisture. However, the soil should drain well because the carambola doesn't appreciate wet feet.

It's important to keep your young tree well-watered to maintain a moist soil environment. Once your carambola has settled into its new home, you should water it whenever the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering. It's recommended you feed your tree with a balanced fertilizer around once a month while it's young and then four to six times a year after it matures. Once you've pruned your young tree to your desired shape, further pruning is necessary only to maintain a height that's manageable. 

A grafted carambola tree is capable of producing fruit around 10 to 14 months after planting, but be aware that these won't ripen off the tree, so make sure you wait until after they've turned yellow before picking. And if you want to add more beauty to your yard with a tropical fruit tree that's worth the slow grow, consider a lychee tree.