Persea americana /Avocado

Foliage and fruit hanging on long stems
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Foliage and fruit hanging on long stems	A stalk of flowers on a tree in Mexico	Foliage
Foliage	Young fruit	A tree that has escaped freeze injury during a period of mild winters in Baton Rouge
Tree growing in Baton Rouge	Early spring flowers	Developing fruit tucked in among the foliage
A tree growing in a protected position in Baton Rouge


Scientific Name:	Persea americana
Common Name:	Avocado
Plant Type:	Evergreen
Leaf Type:	Broadleaf
Hardiness Zone:	10, 11 Determine Your Zone
Height:	30-50 feet
Spread:	10 - 15 feet
Bloom time:	Spring
Flower color:	White, Green
Fruit present:	Fall
Light Exposure:	Sun
Drainage:	Well drained, Moist
Rate of Growth:	Moderate
Water Requirement:	Medium
Maintenance Level:	Medium
Susceptible to insects and diseases:	No

Comments:	The avocado is a tropical tree that will grow and even produce fruit in zone 9, but needs protection from freezes. Edible fruit are produced on trees in warm climates. Provide sunlight and a fertile, well drained soil. In cold climates people will often plant the single seed that comes from the fruit and grow from the seed a tender tropical on the patio during the summer months.