1. Avocado

2. Avocado
The avocado is native to the Caribbean, South America and Central America.

3. Avocado
The oldest evidence of avocado use was found in a cave located in Coxcatlán, Puebla, Mexico and dates to around 10,000 years ago.

4. Avocado
The avocado tree produces a green, rough skinned; pear shaped fruit with a large seed. Due to its appearance it is often referred to as a butter pear or alligator pear.

5. Avocado
The avocado tree is a dense evergreen which produces an average of about 120 avocados annually. It must be grown in a tropical or subtropical climate without frost and with little wind. The trees also need well-aerated soil.

6. Avocado
The outside of an avocado ranges from bright green to greenish brown to greenish black. A ripe avocado will yield to gentle pressure when placed in the palm of the hand and squeezed.

7. Avocado
The flesh is typically greenish yellow to golden yellow when ripe. It will turn brown quickly after exposure to air. Lemon or lime juice can slow the browning.

8. Avocado
About 75% of the calories from the avocado come from fat, most of which is monounsaturated fat. That is unusual for a fruit.

9. Avocado Avocados are rich in Potassium,
B Vitamins, Vitamin E, Vitamin K & Fiber.

10. Avocado
The avocado is very popular in the diet of vegetarians as a meat substitute in sandwiches and salads. It is also the base for the Mexican dip known as guacamole. It is also a popular filling in several kinds of sushi.

11. Avocado References http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avocado
Children’s Literature about Avocados
Avocado Baby
by John Burningham