5 Seeds Phyllanthus acidus (Star Gooseberry) Tropical Fruit Tree

Star Gooseberry (Phyllanthus acidus) is a charming tropical tree known for its clusters of ribbed, pale-yellow fruits with a crisp, tart bite. Also called the country gooseberry or otahiti gooseberry, this vigorous tree forms an attractive rounded canopy that provides light shade while producing abundant clusters of edible fruit during the warm season. The lantern-like shape of the fruit makes it a standout in any tropical or subtropical garden.

The fruits are commonly used in culinary preparations such as chutneys, pickles, preserves, and savory curries, where their sharp acidity balances rich and spicy dishes. As an ornamental, the tree can serve as a single specimen or a light shade tree in the landscape, tolerating a wide range of soils as long as drainage is adequate. Seed-grown trees are hardy and vigorous, and patient gardeners will be rewarded with significant fruiting once the tree reaches maturity.
Species: Phyllanthus acidus
Type: Perennial tropical fruit tree
Plant Habit: Small to medium-sized deciduous tree
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining, moisture-retentive loam; tolerates a range of soil types
Days to Harvest: 3-5 years from seed
Zones: USDA 10-11 (tropical / subtropical)
Germination: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing; germination may take several weeks
Sowing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-draining potting mix; keep warm and consistently moist
Spacing: Plant trees at least 15-20 feet apart
Notes: Seed-grown trees may vary slightly in fruit quality; fruits are best used fresh in culinary dishes