Bilimbi, Cucumber Tree, Pickle Fruit

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 32°F (0°C) for short periods

Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade.

Origin: Indonesia

Growth Habits: Evergreen tree, 30 feet tall (9 m) or more

Watering Needs: Regular water

Propagation: Seeds, layering

The Bilimbi is native to the Moluccas (Indonesia) but is now cultivated in many other places in the Tropics. It forms a medium- sized to large tree that may reach a height of 60 feet, but more commonly is 20 to 30 feet. The odd-pinnately compound leaves are large, containing up to 45 leaflets. The oblong-pointed leaflets are 2 to 4 inches in length and have short petioles.
The Bilimbi is more cold sensitive than the Carambola.

Blooming Habits:
The dark-red flowers are produced in panicles from the trunk and older branches.

Fruiting Habits:
The mature fruits resemble small cucumbers and usually range from 2 to 3 inches in length. They have a smooth thin, green rind sometimes faintly five-angled, and an acid pulp in which are imbedded several small seeds. As with the carambola, there is a sweet form of the bilimbi, which lacks the acid taste. Fruits of the bilimbi are candied or cooked with sugar as a preserve. The pulp also is used to make a refreshing drink.

Propagation:
The bilimbi is usually propagated by seeds but improved form may be marcotted.