Species
Persea americanaAvocado2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Persea americana is a vigorous, upright evergreen tree native to the tropical and subtropical Americas, characterized by a dense, rounded canopy of glossy, elliptic leaves. The species produces small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in terminal panicles during late winter and spring, which precede the development of large, oil-rich drupes.
'Secondo' is a distinct cultivar selected for its vigorous growth habit and reliable fruit production in suitable climates. The new foliage emerges with bronze-reddish tones before maturing to a deep, glossy green, providing ornamental value alongside its agricultural yield.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
393"
Width
315"
Light
Full Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Tropical and Subtropical Americas
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to animals
Bloom period
Late winter – Spring
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun with excellent, rapid drainage and protection from strong winds.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the graft union remains well above the soil line.
- Gently backfill with native soil, firming lightly, and water thoroughly to settle any air pockets.
- Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the dripline, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Plant avocados slightly proud of the surrounding soil level to ensure rapid drainage away from the sensitive root crown, as waterlogging triggers fatal Phytophthora root rot within hours.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in highly draining, sandy or volcanic loam.
- Keep a thick layer of organic mulch over the shallow root system.
- Protect young trees from frost and wind.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy clay or poorly drained soils.
- Do not prune heavily or expose the main trunk to direct afternoon sun.
- Do not apply fertilizer directly against the trunk.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Avocado questions
What zones can Avocado grow in?
Avocado is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Avocado bloom?
Avocado typically blooms in late winter through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Avocado need full sun?
Avocado does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Persea to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Avocado with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.