How to Identify the Leaves on an Avocado Tree

Avocado trees grow best in mild-winter climates such as those found in Mexico, southern California and Florida. These trees are popular for the green fruit they bear--a creamy, nutritious fruit that is high in antioxidants and healthy unsaturated fats. If you are looking to identify an avocado tree that isn't bearing fruit, you can inspect the tree's leaves to see if they share a common resemblance to those of the avocado tree.

Instructions

1. Look for leaves that are dark green, are elliptical in shape, and have an alternate arrangement on the stem. Alternate leaf patterns have one leaf per node and alternate directions along the plant's stem.

2. Inspect the veins of the tree's leaves closely. Leaves on an avocado tree have pale green veins that are easily contrasted from the dark green leaf.

3. Notice the tree's foliage patterns. According to the California Rare Fruit Growers Inc., the leaves of the avocado tree generally stay on the tree for approximately two to three years. They also have the biggest leaf drop in the early spring months, when piles of the dark green leaves can be found on the ground beneath the tree. Because of the leaves' high oil content, they compost slowly and can be visible beneath the tree for a long period of time.

4. Check the tree for flower growth between the January and March. The flowers of the avocado tree are small and yellow-green in appearance. Each tree can expect to have between 200 and 300 small flowers each season.

References

• California Rare Fruit Growers: Avocado