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AVERRHOA BILIMBI - CUCUMBER TREE. 
Common nameBilimbibaum, bilimbi, cucumber tree, carambolier bilimbi, grosella china birambi, tree sorrel, bilimbing asam, bilimbing besu, talang pling, birambi. Family Oxalidaceae; averrhoaceae (Wood sorrel family). Overview The cucumber tree is very closely related to the carambola but it differs in appearance, flavor, manner of fruiting, etc. The bilimbi tree reaches a height of 16 to 35 ft. has a short trunk dividing into upright branches. The dark-red flowers, appearing in panicles, from the trunk and oldest branches, are small and fragrant. The bright-green fruit, 2-3½" in length, emerge directly from the trunk, often in clusters. The brown seeds are flattened and very small. The origin of this plant is Indonesia and since the bilimbi is a tropical species it is sensitive to the cold, especially young plants. The bilimbi is too acid for eating raw but the green uncooked fruits are prepared as a relish in Suriname. They are also used to prepare chutney. Medicinal uses In Malaysia the leaves of bilimbi are used as a treatment for venereal disease. A leaf decoction is taken as a medicine to relieve rectal inflammation. It seems to be effective against coughs and thrush. Hardiness USDA zone 9 B - 11. Propagation Seeds and grafting. Culture Full sun; rich and moist soil. The soil should be well drained. In Florida it needs protection from the cold, although it is hardy to 32° F. for short periods. |
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