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Description
Persea Humilis, also known as the West Indian avocado or the lesser-known avocado, is a small tropical tree native to the Caribbean and Central America. It belongs to the Lauraceae family, which also includes the popular avocado tree (Persea Americana). The tree produces small, pear-shaped fruits that are about the size of a golf ball and have a thin, smooth, and shiny green skin. The fruit’s flesh is yellowish-green, creamy, and has a sweet and nutty flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Persea |
Appearance
The Persea Humilis tree is small, reaching a height of only 6-8 meters. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped, growing up to 20 cm long and 5 cm wide. The tree’s flowers are small, yellow-green, and grow in clusters. Its fruit is pear-shaped, around 3-5 cm long, and has smooth, thin, and shiny green skin. Its flesh is yellowish-green, creamy, and has a sweet and nutty flavor.
Care Guide
Persea Humilis is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your Persea Humilis plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant twice a year with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Persea Humilis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persea Humilis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes black spots on leaves and fruit.
- Root Rot: Caused by overwatering, which can lead to the plant’s death.
- Spider Mites: Small pests that suck the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves.
- Scale Insects: Small pests that suck the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves.
Habitat
Persea Humilis is native to the tropical regions of the Caribbean and Central America. It thrives in humid and warm climates and prefers well-draining soil. The plant can be grown in containers or in the ground and is suitable for small gardens and balconies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Persea Humilis a dwarf avocado tree?
A: No, Persea Humilis is not a dwarf avocado tree. It is a separate species that produces smaller fruits than the popular avocado tree (Persea Americana).
Q: Can Persea Humilis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Persea Humilis can be grown in containers, making it suitable for small gardens and balconies.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Persea Humilis plant?
A: Fertilize your Persea Humilis plant twice a year with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Persea Humilis?
A: Persea Humilis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Persea Americana (Avocado Tree)
- Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor Tree)
- Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon Tree)
- Laurus Nobilis (Bay Laurel)
References
- “Persea Humilis.” Plantz Africa, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/perseahumilis.htm.
- “Persea Humilis.” World Agroforestry Centre, 2021, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1925.
- “Persea Humilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286870.
