Bilimbi or Cucumber Tree - ตะลิงปลิง (ta-līng plīng) - Averrhoa bilimbi

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"Bilimbi" and "cucumber tree" both refer to the same fruit in Thailand, known locally as ตะลิงปลิง (taling pling). 

General information:

  • Botanical name: Averrhoa bilimbi
  • Family: Oxalidaceae (same as carambola [Star fruit])
  • Tree: Grows up to 15 meters tall, with drooping branches and compound leaves.
  • Fruit: Small, oblong drupes, 3-6 cm long, green when unripe and yellow when ripe.
  • Taste: Extremely sour, with a slightly floral aroma.

Uses in Thailand:

  • Fresh: Enjoyed raw, dipped in salt or chili powder.
  • Cooking: Used in curries, soups, and stir-fries to add a sour tang. Popular in fish and seafood dishes. 
  • Preserves: Pickled, candied, or made into jams and chutneys.
  • Medicinal: Traditionally used to treat various ailments like diarrhea, dysentery, and fever.

Popularity:

  • Widely available in Thai markets and backyards.
  • Considered a versatile and healthy fruit, rich in vitamin C and potassium.
  • Sourness can be challenging for some, but loved for its unique flavor.

Additional information:

  • Closely related to carambola (star fruit), but with a different fruit shape and taste.
  • Contains oxalates, so moderation is recommended for people prone to kidney stones.
  • Can be sensitive to frost, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates.

Local names:

  • ตะลิงปลิง (taling pling) - most common
  • ตะลิม (talim)
  • ตะลิงพุง (taling phung)
  • ตะลิงช้าง (taling chang)

Where to find it in Thailand:

  • Look for it in local markets and grocery stores.
  • You might find it growing in backyards or parks, especially in rural areas.

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