Introducing...
Avocado
Botanical name: Persea americana
Grow your own tropical avocado plant from the seed inside a shop-bought fruit. It’s an easy and fun project, and you’ll have an attractive leafy houseplant that will grow well on a warm, bright windowsill for several years.
Looks
Avocado plants grow rapidly from seed, forming a slender tree with large, oval, glossy leaves. They are tender, so are grown as potted houseplants, and will reach 1m (3⅓ft) or more in favourable conditions.
Likes
They like warmth, plenty of light, regular watering and humidity. Feed fortnightly in summer, and monthly in winter, to encourage strong, healthy growth. Seeds germinate readily in water or moist compost.
Dislikes
These tender plants dislike low temperatures and are best kept above 13°C (55°F). Mature plants may be more resilient but are not usually frost-proof. They don’t like soggy or very dry compost.
Did you know?
Although avocado plants won’t usually flower or fruit when grown as houseplants, they do add a tropical touch to a bright room and are a fun challenge to grow from seed.
Growing guide
How to grow avocado plants
All the information you'll need to grow and care for avocado plants in your home.
Useful advice
Houseplants for different locations
Houseplants: holiday care
Warm conservatory and greenhouse plants
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.