Persea americana aka Avocado

Persea americana, or avocado, is an evergreen tree in the laurel family. Its native range runs from central Mexico to Costa Rica. Growers raise it for fruit in warm regions worldwide. Outdoor garden trees often reach 30–40 feet [9.1–12.2 metres]. Their crowns spread 25–35 feet [7.6–10.7 metres] across. Larger trees can reach about 65 feet [20 metres]. Under cover, plants may stay near 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. The tree grows fast and branches near the ground. Its crown may spread wide or form a narrow oval.

The bark turns rough and blocky as the tree ages. Its colour ranges from reddish brown to grey. Young twigs are green to brown, with ridges and fine hairs. Rust-coloured hairs cover the short buds. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern along stems. Their edges are smooth, and their veins are pinnate. New leaves often look red before turning dark green. Mature leaves have pale undersides and a leathery feel. Crushed leaves can give off a spicy scent.

Small yellow-green flowers grow in clusters near the branch tips. They appear from late winter into early spring. The flowers have a scent but lack petals. Bees and other insects help move pollen between flowers. Plants rarely flower under cover in cool climates. Round or pear-shaped fruits hold one large seed. Their skin can be smooth or have small bumps. Skin colours range from green to purple or almost black. The soft flesh has a rich, buttery texture. Fruit generally ripens after picking or falling from the tree.

Avocado grows in full sun and can take light shade. It needs soil that drains well but retains some moisture. Water young trees regularly, and water established trees during drought. It can grow in sand, loam, or well-drained clay. Protect outdoor trees from frost and strong winds. Sources place it in USDA zones 10–12, with Florida guidance extending to 9b. The RHS rates it H1C for UK conditions. In cool regions, grow it under cover in containers. Outdoor trees provide shade as well as edible fruit.

Branches can break in storms or under heavy fruit loads. Fallen leaves and fruit can make a mess. Mites, scale, whitefly, thrips, and mealybugs may cause trouble. Leaf spots, root rot, and Verticillium wilt can occur. Beetles spread laurel wilt, which can kill trees within weeks. Ripe fruit flesh is edible; one source warns against unripe fruit. Persin can poison horses, and leaves can harm rabbits. Repeated fruit feeding can also harm pets, including caged birds.