Starfruit Flower
Averrhoa carambola L.
Starfruit flowers are small, delicate pink to lavender blossoms that appear before the iconic star-shaped fruit. Native to Southeast Asia, these fragrant flowers attract pollinators and symbolize tropical abundance and exotic beauty.
Oxalidaceae (Wood Sorrel family)
Year-round in tropical climates, with peak flowering April-May and September-October
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: holmskioldia (chinese hat flower)s and pineapple lilys also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Starfruit flowers hold cultural importance in Southeast Asian traditions where the tree has been cultivated for centuries. The flowers precede the distinctive star-shaped fruit, which is valued both for its ornamental cross-section and sweet-tart flavor. In Malaysia and Indonesia, the tree is part of traditional home gardens.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6-8 hours daily) for optimal flowering and fruiting
Water
Moderate to high; requires regular watering especially during flowering and fruit set
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy loam, Fertile, Slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in frost-free areas (USDA zones 10-11)
Water regularly from flowering through harvest
Flowers are perfect (self-pollinating) but benefit from pollinators
Fertilize monthly during active growth
Protect from strong winds which can damage flowers and fruit
Harvest fruit when yellow and slightly soft for best flavor
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Tropical landscape specimen tree
- Edible fruit production
- Fragrant flowering tree for gardens
- Attractive foliage with compound leaves
- Container growing in cooler climates
Traditional Uses
- Fruit used in traditional medicine for fever and skin disorders
- Flowers consumed raw in salads in some cultures
- Leaves used traditionally for rheumatism relief
- Rich in antioxidants including vitamin C and beta-carotene
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Starfruit Flower
what do starfruit flowers look like
Starfruit flowers are small, bell-shaped blossoms about 1 cm in diameter with five pink to lavender petals. They appear in clusters on branches and have a delicate, sweet fragrance.
when do starfruit trees flower
Starfruit trees can flower year-round in tropical climates, with major flowering periods typically occurring in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October).
are starfruit flowers edible
Yes, starfruit flowers are edible and can be consumed raw in salads. They have a slightly sweet, acidic flavor similar to the fruit.
how long does it take for starfruit flowers to become fruit
After pollination, it takes approximately 60 to 75 days for starfruit flowers to develop into mature fruit, depending on variety and growing conditions.
what pollinates starfruit flowers
Starfruit flowers are primarily pollinated by honeybees and stingless bees, though the flowers are perfect and can self-pollinate.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Holmskioldia (Chinese Hat Flower)
Holmskioldia sanguinea
Holmskioldia produces unique tubular flowers sitting atop distinctive saucer-shaped calyxes, creating a "Chinese hat" appearance in vibrant orange, red, or yellow colors.
Pineapple Lily
Eucomis comosa (and other Eucomis spp.)
Pineapple Lily is a striking South African bulbous perennial whose dense, cylindrical flower spikes crowned with a tuft of leafy bracts bear an uncanny resemblance to a pineapple. Its starry flowers range from white and cream to lilac, pink, and deep burgundy.
Tricyrtis
Tricyrtis species
Tricyrtis are exotic late-season perennials with spotted, orchid-like flowers. Despite their unusual common name, they symbolize transformation, uniqueness, and the beauty found in unexpected places.