Cucumber Tree
averrhoa bilimbi
Also known as: ["Bilimbi","Bilimbiri","Kamranga"]
Overview
A small, tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its acidic, cucumber-shaped fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Averrhoa |
| Botanical Name: | Averrhoa bilimbi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: protected outdoor garden or large container in a warm, humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; a mix of loam, compost, and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed, but avoid excessive pruning during floweri
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; protect from intense midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reducing to every 7–10 days in cooler months
Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging, and water deeply to encourage root growth.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with high organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; check moisture before watering; amend soil if it becomes too dense or waterlogged.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 20–30°C (68–86°F); thrives in tropical conditions; sensitive to frost and cold drafts.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures for flowering and fruiting.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 10–15 cm cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; new growth indicates establishment, which can take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage branching; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; focus on improving air circulation and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dry conditions; make clean cuts just above a node or branch junction; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh potting mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water frequently during warm seasons, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, slowed growth, or bud abortion in cold; wilting, scorching, or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to root damage or death if prolonged below 10°C (50°F).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if indoors; use frost cloth for outdoor protection; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced fruit set due to dehydration and metabolic stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply and more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; water before fertilizing; apply during active growth; adjust for fruiting phase.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the oxalic acid in the fruit. Overconsumption could lead to metabolic issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe high oxalic acid content in the fruit can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Prolonged or excessive consumption may contribute to metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe fruit of Averrhoa bilimbi contains oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and metabolic disturbances if consumed in large amounts. The acidity may also irritate the mucous membranes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Averrhoa bilimbi safe for human consumption?
A: The fruit is edible but should be used in moderation due to its acidity and potential mild toxicity.
Q: How often should I water Averrhoa bilimbi?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during fruiting periods.
Q: Does Averrhoa bilimbi require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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