Persea Rigens
Contents
Description
Persea Rigens is a species of evergreen tree that belongs to the Lauraceae family. It is also known as the Arizona avocado, and it is native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas in the United States. The tree is small, reaching a height of up to 20 feet, with a trunk that can grow up to 10 inches in diameter. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and they can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and the fruit is a small, pear-shaped berry that is edible but not commonly eaten.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Persea |
| Species | Rigens |
Appearance
Persea Rigens has a dense, rounded crown with a symmetrical shape. The bark is gray and smooth, and it can become scaly as the tree ages. The leaves are elliptical and leathery, with a glossy surface and a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they bloom in the spring. The fruit is a small, pear-shaped berry that is green when unripe and black when ripe. The flesh is thin and watery, with a large seed in the center.
Care Guide
Persea Rigens is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, and it should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Fertilization is not necessary, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 7b-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persea Rigens is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The tree is also vulnerable to spider mites, scale insects, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Persea Rigens is native to the southwestern United States, where it grows in rocky canyons and desert washes. It can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures, making it a hardy plant for arid landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Persea Rigens a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Persea Rigens is a hardy plant that requires minimal care, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Persea Rigens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Persea Rigens can be grown in containers, but it will need to be repotted as it grows.
Q: Does Persea Rigens produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, Persea Rigens produces small, edible fruit, but it is not commonly eaten due to its small size and thin flesh.
Q: Is Persea Rigens a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Persea Rigens is a hardy plant that can add texture and color to arid landscapes.
Related Plants
- Persea Americana (avocado)
- Persea Borbonia (redbay)
- Persea Gratissima (avocado)
- Persea Indica (mango)
References
- “Persea Rigens.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PERI4.
- “Persea Rigens.” Desert Museum. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.desertmuseum.org/programs/succulents_species_guide/Persea_rigens.php.
- “Persea Rigens.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:464811-1.
