Hass Avocado Tree
a) Average life expectancy
The average life expectancy of Hass avocado trees is unknown exactly. There are trees that have been alive for over 80 years and still fruiting seasonally.
b) Years until first fruit
Grafted trees purchased from nurseries can commence producing fruit in generally 3 to 5 years from purchase. Avocado trees that are not grafted can take up to 10 years to produce first fruit.
c) Season of fruiting
The Hass avocado fruits in April-May in Australia. This time of year is in Autumn and the start of the cooler months. Avocados mature on the tree, but ripen best when harvested.
d) Years of productivity
Hass avocado tree are known to fruit for 50 years and potentially longer.
e) Country of origin
Hass Avocado trees are believed to have originated from Central Mexico. They were first commercially grown in California, America.
f) Average annuall rainfall of area of origin
The average annual rainfall of Central Mexico I approximately 942 to 993mm per year. The average annual rainfall for California is 470mm. Avocado trees in general do not have deep roots and therefore require a substantial amount of rainfall to stay healthy.
g) What is the latin name and family
Persea americana and Hass Avocados are from the Lauraceae family.
h) Other benefits/uses
The tree has dense foliage and would be beneficial for a wind break. The leaves from the tree are used for infusions and tea blends. The bark is also harvested for oil production, primarily used in skincare products.
i) Height, width, shape
The tree can grow up to 15 to 20 metres in height, however for agricultural purposes are pruned to not exceed heights of 5-7m. If pruned to maintain a lower height, the canopy on the avocado tree can be up to 5 metres wide and is generally round.
j) Additional challenges/requirements
There are two types of avocado tree (group A and group B) that change sex during the days and subsequent days. Although avocado trees can self-pollinate, it is recommended to have at least 2 trees to increase yields. It is also noted parts of the avocado tree can be poisonous to animals such as dogs and goats and to consider this during the design phase.
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