Avocado

(Persea americana)

Avocado (Persea americana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Persea americana, commonly known as Avocado, is an evergreen tree native to the highland forests of Central America and Mexico. It can grow up to 20 meters (66 feet) tall, with a broad canopy of alternately arranged leaves that are 12–25 cm (5–10 inches) long. The tree produces panicles of inconspicuous, greenish-yellow flowers, each 5–10 mm (3⁄16–3⁄8 inches) wide, with deciduous bracts arising from new growth or leaf axils. The fruit, also known as an avocado or alligator pear, is a large berry with a single seed and is highly valued for its nutritional content.

Avocado trees are known for their edible fruit, which is a staple in various cuisines and valued for its healthy fats. They are partially self-pollinating and often grafted to ensure fruit consistency. In cultivation, they require a frost-free climate with minimal wind, as wind can dehydrate flowers and hinder pollination. While the ’Hass’ cultivar can tolerate temperatures down to −1 °C, cold-hardy varieties exist that can withstand −6.5 °C with minimal damage. Avocado trees thrive in well-aerated soils more than 1 meter deep and benefit from full sun exposure. They have moderate water requirements, with a notable water footprint of approximately 70 liters per fruit. Despite potential issues with frost and water consumption, avocados are popular for their ornamental value and can be grown as houseplants.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-60 feet
  • Width: 20-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption.

Natural Habitat

Highland forests of Central America and Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Avocadobaum, Avocadopalme, Aguacate, Palto, Avocatier, Avokado, Alligator Pear, Pear, Zaboca, Abokado

Scientific Names: , Persea americana, Persea gratissima, Persea drymifolia, Persea americana var. drymifolia, Persea americana subsp. drymifolia, Persea floccosa, Persea americana var. nubigena, Laurus persea, Persea americana var. guatemalensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Persea americana Mill.