Belimbing Darah Fruit Plants (Baccaurea Angulata)

Belimbing Darah – A Crimson Rarity with Sweet-Sour Virtues from the Wild

Botanical Name: Baccaurea angulata
Common Name: Belimbing Darah, also known as Belimbing Hutan (Wild Starfruit)

A Rare Fruit from the Depths of the Rainforest

Native to the verdant lowland forests of Borneo, the Belimbing Darah is an exotic fruiting tree with a mystique all its own. Often called "blood starfruit" due to its intense reddish hue, this rare species thrives in Malaysia, Indonesia, and parts of Brunei, where it is both admired and protected. Now making its quiet debut in specialty gardens across Asia, it remains a well-guarded treasure of the tropics.

This slow-revealing fruit transforms dramatically as it ripens—from bright red to deep purple, finally settling into a rich reddish-brown, offering not just a feast of color but also a compelling taste experience that ranges from tangy to lusciously sweet.

Taste Profile and Culinary Potential

The fruit of Baccaurea angulata is known for its juicy, complex taste that makes it a versatile ingredient:

• Flavor profile: A mix of sweet, sour, and subtly astringent notes

• Texture: Smooth, semi-translucent pulp surrounding small seeds

• Color: Reddish flesh reminiscent of pomegranate or blood plum

• Culinary uses:

  • Eaten raw as a refreshing snack

  • Used in making local jams and chutneys

  • Blended into juices for a natural, vitamin-rich drink

  • Fermented in some cultures to create traditional beverages

The fruit’s appeal lies in its balance of bold tanginess and gentle sweetness, offering a truly wild and tropical flavor.

Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits

Traditional communities of Southeast Asia have long treasured Belimbing Darah not just for its taste, but for its healing properties. The fruit and tree are respected in folk medicine for multiple reasons:

• High in Vitamin C: Strengthens immunity and enhances skin health

• Contains natural antioxidants: Protects cells and slows aging

• Supports blood sugar regulation: Consumed by diabetics for managing glucose levels

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Used to ease hemorrhoids and joint pain

• Treats coughs and respiratory discomforts

• Rich in calcium and iron: Helps in strengthening bones and preventing fatigue

A single serving of this fruit delivers not only refreshment but also a nutritional boost that aligns with traditional herbal wisdom.

Growth and Cultivation Details

The Belimbing Darah tree, although exotic, adapts well to cultivated environments when grown with patience and care:

• Growth habit: Small to medium tree, bushy with spreading branches

• Height: Typically 4 to 8 meters when mature

• Bloom time: Flowers appear in 2 to 3 years

• Fruiting: Fruits develop directly on the trunk (cauliflorous) or main branches

• Soil preference: Moist, well-drained loamy soil; thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH

• Light requirements: Prefers dappled sunlight or partial shade in extreme heat zones

• Watering: Needs consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged roots

• Fertilization: Organic compost or mild fertilizers during growing and fruiting seasons

• Pest resistance: Generally hardy with minimal pest concerns in tropical climates

Its graceful form and lush foliage also make it a charming addition to gardens and natural landscapes.

Cultural Significance and Folk Uses

In Sarawak and Kalimantan, Belimbing Darah holds a unique place in local traditions:

• Used in tribal ceremonies as an offering fruit due to its deep red color

• Believed to cleanse the blood and boost energy, symbolizing vitality

• Sometimes prepared as a fermented fruit paste with salt for preserving medicinal properties

• The juice, when lightly heated with honey, is taken as a household remedy for coughs and throat infections

Its presence in home gardens is also associated with longevity and health, especially among elder generations.

Post-Harvest Care and Preservation

• Harvest when fruit changes to red-purple and softens slightly under pressure

• Fresh fruits should be consumed within 2–3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week

• Pulp can be frozen or used in preserves for year-round enjoyment

• In traditional kitchens, it’s sun-dried or pickled to extend shelf life

Why You’ll Want It in Your Garden

For those seeking rare, medicinally rich, and aesthetically unique fruit plants, the Belimbing Darah is a standout addition. It’s suitable for:

• Exotic fruit gardens

• Ethnobotanical collections

• Medicinal plant landscapes

• Home gardens with partial shade

Its low branching habit and early fruiting ability make it a joy to maintain and harvest—even for first-time tropical growers.

Available Now – But Only for a Limited Time

Due to its limited propagation and increasing popularity, the Belimbing Darah plant is currently in short supply at Veliyath Gardens. As one of the few nurseries to introduce this rare Bornean species to Indian soil, we recommend early booking to avoid missing this botanical marvel.

Veliyath Gardens – Where Knowledge Grows with Every Plant

At Veliyath Gardens, we don’t just offer plants—we curate stories, knowledge, and rare heritage fruits like Baccaurea angulata. As India’s first plant nursery to serve as a fruit encyclopedia, we’re proud to bring this first-time initiative to life for passionate fruit growers and nature lovers across the country.

Add an Exotic Chapter to Your Garden Journey

Whether you're a tropical plant enthusiast, a culinary explorer, or someone looking to expand your homegrown healing pantry, Belimbing Darah brings beauty, nutrition, and a sense of discovery to your garden.

Limited stocks now available at Veliyath Gardens. Secure your plant today—and grow something unforgettable.