(Persea americana)
The avocado tree, scientifically known as Persea americana, is a perennial species native to Mesoamerica, particularly the highland regions of Mexico and Guatemala. It belongs to the Lauraceae family and is prized worldwide for its fruit: the avocado, also called palta in some South American countries.
Botanical Characteristics
This tree can reach between 10 and 20 meters in height, although in commercial cultivation it is usually kept shorter to facilitate harvesting. It has a straight trunk with grayish bark and spreading branches that form a dense canopy. Its leaves are large, oval, and dark green, and remain on the tree year-round.
The flowers are small, greenish, and grouped in panicles. Although hermaphroditic, the tree exhibits a curious pollination mechanism known as protogynous dichogamy, which means that the female and male parts of the flower mature at different times, favoring cross-pollination.
The Fruit
The avocado is a large berry with a soft, buttery, green or pale yellow flesh, rich in healthy fats, especially monounsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid. Its skin can be smooth or rough, depending on the variety, and inside it contains a single, large, round seed.
Varieties
There are multiple varieties of avocado, the best known being:
- Hass: The most widely sold worldwide, with rough skin and an intense flavor.
- Fuerte: Smoother skin, mild flavor, and an elongated shape.
- Bacon, Zutano, and Pinkerton: Other varieties grown in different regions of the world.
Cultivation and Uses
The avocado tree requires subtropical or tropical climates, with well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is sensitive to frost, but tolerates dry periods well if well established.
In addition to its nutritional value, the avocado has applications in cosmetics and natural medicine, thanks to its nutritional, moisturizing, and antioxidant properties.
