Trim ends off carrots, then grate to yield about 3 cups. Place in a large bowl.
Peel apple if desired. Cut out the core. Cut into 8 wedges top to bottom. Cut across each wedge to form thin slices. Peel and cut optional orange into segments* with or without membranes. Add to carrots.
Coarsely chop cilantro (or parsley) leaves. Add to carrots, along with orange juice, oil, juice from lime, salt, and optional 5-spice. Toss to combine.
Garnish with sunflower seeds and/or currants (or raisins) if desired.