Persea americana 'Nishikawa' (Avocado)

Persea americana, the avocado, is an evergreen fruit tree native to southern Mexico and Central America, cultivated for thousands of years and now grown throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Belonging to the laurel family, it develops into a medium to large tree with a dense canopy of glossy green leaves, reaching 20 to 60 feet depending on climate and rootstock, and remaining productive for decades.
Fruits vary widely in size, shape, skin texture, and color - from smooth green to rough dark-purple - depending on the cultivar. The flesh is rich in healthy oils and prized for its smooth buttery texture. The species is also notable for its unusual flowering biology, with flowers opening in two phases that promote cross-pollination between complementary types.
Cultivars derived from Mexican, Guatemalan, and West Indian genetic backgrounds show considerable variation in fruit quality, harvest season, and cold tolerance. The hardiest Mexican-type selections may survive temperatures near 20F when mature, while many West Indian types sustain damage below 30F. Avocado grows best in full sun with well-drained soil and regular moisture; it is sensitive to prolonged waterlogging. Generally suited to USDA Zones 9b-11. See more about avocado:
Avocado varieties chart.
Avocado variety guide: Snack or Guacamole?
Growing avocadoes in Florida
The Magic of the Avocado

Persea americana 'Nishikawa' is a grafted avocado cultivar of believed Hawaiian origin, associated with Guatemalan-type characteristics: dense creamy flesh, high oil content, and a smooth buttery texture with nutty flavor. The fruit is pear-shaped to oval with skin that stays green at maturity.

The tree develops a moderately compact evergreen canopy and may begin fruiting at a relatively young age. Compared to many tropical cultivars, 'Nishikawa' tolerates cool subtropical conditions better than West Indian types, making it popular among collectors and home growers in marginal regions - mature trees can reportedly handle brief drops into the upper 20F. It is generally considered suitable for USDA Zones 9-11.