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Carambola 'Golden Star'

Carambola 'Golden Star'

$150.00 - $150.00
$150.00
$150.00 - $150.00
$150.00

Carambola 'Golden Star' (Averrhoa carambola 'Golden Star')

Taste: The Carambola 'Golden Star', commonly known as starfruit, is celebrated for its distinctive sweet and tangy flavor. The fruit has a crisp, juicy texture and a flavor profile that combines notes of apple, pear, and citrus. When fully ripe, it is golden yellow with a slightly tart undertone, making it ideal for fresh eating, salads, and garnishes, as well as for use in juices, preserves, and desserts.

Best Growing Environment: Carambola 'Golden Star' thrives in warm, humid climates. It prefers well-drained, sandy loam or loamy soil rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The tree flourishes in areas with high humidity and consistent warmth, performing best in tropical and subtropical regions. It can be grown successfully in more temperate climates with proper care and protection from cold weather.

Common Names:

  • Carambola 'Golden Star'
  • Golden Starfruit
  • Starfruit
  • Five-finger

Average Height: Carambola 'Golden Star' trees typically reach an average height of 12 to 30 feet (3.6 to 9 meters) but can be pruned to maintain a smaller, more manageable size. When grown in containers or restricted spaces, they can be kept around 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) tall.

Growth Rate: The 'Golden Star' variety has a moderate to fast growth rate. Under optimal conditions, the tree can grow about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) per year. It generally begins to bear fruit within 2 to 3 years after planting, with full production occurring around 4 to 5 years.

Sun Requirements: Carambola trees require full sun to thrive, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade but will produce less fruit and may grow more slowly in such conditions.

Cold Hardiness: Carambola 'Golden Star' is sensitive to frost and can be damaged by temperatures below 30°F (-1°C). It is best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 9b through 11. In cooler zones, it should be grown in containers and brought indoors or to a greenhouse during the winter months.

Water Requirements: Starfruit trees need regular, consistent watering, especially during the growing and fruiting seasons. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Deep watering is recommended to encourage deep root growth. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. During dry periods, increase the frequency of watering.

Planting Guide:

  • Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Ensure the site is protected from strong winds and has good air circulation.
  • Planting Time: The best time to plant Carambola 'Golden Star' is in the spring or early summer when the weather is warm and conducive to growth.
  • Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with native soil mixed with organic compost.
  • Spacing: Space trees 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and remove air pockets. Continue to water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  • Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing Guide:

  • Spring: Begin fertilizing in early spring when new growth starts. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a formulation such as 10-10-10 or 8-3-9. Apply according to package instructions.
  • Summer: Continue fertilizing every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. Increase the application of high-potassium fertilizer (e.g., 0-0-50) to promote fruit development.
  • Fall: Reduce fertilization in the fall as growth slows. Apply a balanced fertilizer once in early fall.
  • Winter: Cease fertilizing during the winter months when the tree's growth is minimal. Resume regular fertilization in the spring.

USDA Zone: Carambola 'Golden Star' is best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 9b through 11. These zones provide the warm, frost-free conditions necessary for the tree to thrive and produce abundant fruit. In cooler zones, the tree should be grown in containers and protected during the winter months to prevent frost damage.