Avocado

There are numerous cultivated varieties of avocados, but they are all derived from three main groups: The West Indian, Guatemalan and Mexican. West Indian cultivars have large, smooth, shiny-skinned fruits containing more water and less fat (monounsaturated oil) than the other groups. They are sometimes marketed as "lite" avocados with fewer calories. They are typically grown in warm, tropical climates, such as southern Florida and the Hawaiian Islands. The Guatemalan group was originally from the highlands of Guatemala. Cultivars in this group can be grown in more temperate climates than the West Indian group. A popular Guatemalan cultivar grown in southern California is the 'Hass,' easily recognizable by its thick, black, rough-skinned fruit. The Mexican group includes some of the hardiest and most commonly grown cultivars in southern California, including 'Duke,' 'Mexicola,' and 'Zutano.' One of the most important commercial avocados in California is 'Fuerte,' a Mexican x Guatemalan hybrid.