8–15 cm long berries, star-shaped on the cross-section, with a waxy, shiny, semi-translucent skin. The color ranges from light green, through light yellow to deep golden yellow. The flesh smells of jasmine, is crispy, tender and juicy, with a slightly sour to sweet taste, depending on the type and ripeness. Its taste is specific, apple and citrus. In the middle there are small seeds that can be eaten together with the pulp.
Ripe carambola is rather yellow, with a slight hint of light green and light brown ribs. Overripe fruits tend to have brown spots on the surface. The fruit is eaten sliced with the skin.

It is most often eaten fresh in exotic fruit salads or as a garnish for sundaes and drinks. It can also be added to hot dishes.

It contains antioxidants, a lot of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron, and is low in sugar. It is grown in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in Southeast Asia, California, the South Pacific, Africa, Central and South America.
It should not be consumed in large quantities by people with serious kidney problems. The juice is also used to clean brass.