Water
Water deeply when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry. Avocados dislike soggy roots but also cannot tolerate prolonged drought. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months when growth slows down.
Also known as Abokato · Aguacate (español) · Alligator Pear
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to pets. See toxicity details.
Avocado (Persea americana) is a large berry fruit native to South Central Mexico, and cultivated in tropical and Mediterranean climates for its nutritious fruit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Consistent but not excessive
75% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry between waterings. Good drainage is crucial.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-30°C. Protect from frost; sensitive to cold.
Regular feeding
75% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced, micronutrient-rich fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
The leaves, bark, and pit contain persin, which is toxic to some animals, particularly birds. The flesh of the fruit is generally considered safe for most pets in small amounts.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry. Avocados dislike soggy roots but also cannot tolerate prolonged drought. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months when growth slows down.
Prune young trees to encourage a strong, well-branched structure, removing crossing or weak branches. For mature trees, prune to manage size, improve air circulation, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Light pruning can be done year-round, with heavier pruning in late winter or early spring.
Avocados are most commonly propagated by grafting to ensure desired fruit characteristics and disease resistance.
Growing from seed is possible but results in a tree that may take many years to fruit and might not produce true-to-type fruit. Seeds require consistent warmth and moisture.
Repot young avocado plants every 1-2 years into a slightly larger container, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably one designed for citrus or tropical plants.
Handle the root ball gently to avoid damage, ensuring not to plant too deep.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Avocado (Persea americana)
Where Avocado (Persea americana) is found

Density
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10 known issues from plant disease data
Phytophthora Root Rot in Avocado causes small pale leaves, drooping with brown tips, sparse canopy, branch dieback, and many undersized fruit.
Phytophthora Trunk Canker and Crown Rot in Avocado causes dark bark with reddish resin, canopy thinning, and sudden browning in advanced cases.
Anthracnose on Avocado causes slightly sunken brown to black fruit spots that enlarge quickly, crack, and rot deeply into the flesh.
Laurel Wilt on Avocado causes green leaves to wilt, then turn brown and stay attached, with rapid limb dieback and dark streaking under bark.
Avocado Scab on Avocado causes small brown to purplish fruit spots that become rough and sunken, while leaves show star-like spots and shot holes.
Cercospora Spot on Avocado causes tiny angular brown to purple leaf spots with yellow halos and brown fruit lesions that crack as they enlarge.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Persea |
| Species | Persea americana |
Similar in genus Persea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data