Avocados originated from tropical America. However, we have three ecological races: Mexican, Guatemalan, and West Indian. Avocado best grows in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. In Florida, commercial growers can be seen in Miami-Dade and Collier Counties, however, isolated trees are in warm locations throughout the State. In general, avocado likes warm areas such as the southeast and southwest coasts of Florida. If you leave in south Florida, West Indian varieties are best adapted to a tropical climate and frost-free areas of subtropic. Mexican and Guatemalan x Mexican varieties can tolerate cold climates better than West Indian varieties.

how many varieties of avocado are there?

There are over 500 varieties of avocado that are different in size, texture, shape, and maturity rate.

Is there any difference between avocados regarding nutrient value?

Avocado is a great source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Potassium, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin E. For example, avocado contains more potassium than a banana. But what avocado is well-known for is a high amount of monounsaturated fatty acids that 77% of the calories in an avocado come from these fats. Most of the fat in avocado is oleic acid, the same fatty acid that is a major component of olive oil. Oleic acid is believed to reduce inflammation in the body. However, avocado varieties are different in nutrients contents. For example, in the same serving size, Hass avocado has more fatty acid and calories than Florida avocado. They are different in taste as well. Some have a mild flavor, and some have more bitterness.

Which variety is best for Guacamole?

It is a very well-known expression saying that do not start a Guacamole with a bad avocado. To check if an avocado is a good or bad start with picking a small stem on top of the fruit. If under the stem is green, it is a good avocado. If it is brown underneath, the avocado is overripe, and you’re likely to find brown spots inside. So, for making great guacamole, we are looking for avocado with a creamy texture. The first choice for making guacamole is Hass avocado because of its flavor and creamy texture. Brogdon and Fuerte varieties can be the second and third choices.

Some good resources to read:

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/MG213

https://californiaavocado.com/avocado101/avocado-varieties/

https://homesteadandchill.com/20-avocado-varieties-type-a-b-explained/

https://www.finedininglovers.com/article/how-many-avocado-varieties-do-you-know-here-are-over-50

https://www.homestratosphere.com/types-of-avocados/

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