Star fruit comes in two varieties; sweet (with 5% sugars) and tart (with 1% acid). The sweet star fruit season falls in summer to late winter and that of the tart variety is from late summer to midwinter. Fruits which are unripe can be ripened at room temperature until the fruits become glowing gold.
Warm, high humidity climate favors growing star fruit trees. Rainfall all year round promote healthy growth and rich bearing of fruits. Places with 70 inch annual rainfall are ideal for growing the trees. Although, these tree can grow in all soil types, they prefer deep rich acid soil for better growth and productivity. It is to be ensured that the soil must provide a good drainage.
The usual propagation of the star fruit tree is done by planting its seeds. Before being sown, the seeds must be cleaned, dried and must be sown fresh. Prior to growing the seeds in outdoor soils, it is better to sow them in small pots or containers. Damp peat moss is good for the purpose. When the seedlings appear, they can be transplanted outdoors and the pots can be used as root stock. In summer, germination will take about 5 - 7 days, while in winter, 12 - 18 days. Moderate amount of watering is required for growing a star fruit tree. Do not over water nor leave it to dry. Fertilizer such as organic compost/manure is good for its growth.
Star Fruit Health Benefits
* Lowering cholesterol
* Prevents and treats constipation
* Treats jaundice
* The water extracted from the leaves and roots by boiling, helps in the treatment of headaches, ringworm, and chickenpox
* Manages hangover and prickly heat in summers
* Treating sore eyes and stimulating milk in nursing mothers
* Treating sunstroke, nausea, indigestion, colds and flu
* Helpful in losing weight and maintaining optimum health due to its richness in antioxidants
Star Fruit Side Effects
The star fruit, although, provides so many benefits, some people must avoid its consumption for good. These people are those who are suffering from kidney problems, most commonly, chronic renal failure or those who are under kidney dialysis treatment. The fruit is abundant in oxalic acid which is the main source of concern and that is the reason even a minimal amount of it can do a lot of harm. Insomnia, hiccups, agitation, muscle weakness, confusion, consciousness disturbances, seizures and cardiorespiratory arrest are the symptoms which may occur upon consumption of this fruit.