The starfruit plant, or Averrhoa carambola, is a small, evergreen tropical tree native to Southeast Asia that grows 6-9 meters tall and produces unique, star-shaped fruit when sliced crosswise. The tree thrives in warm, humid climates with well-drained soil and bears lilac-colored flowers followed by fruits that range in color from green to yellow. The fruit is edible, rich in Vitamin C, and has a flavor that can be sweet or sour, making it useful in both fresh culinary applications and traditional medicines.