Stearns Avocado

'Stearns' is a rare avocado variety discovered in the 1940s in California. It was nearly lost but rescued by fruit enthusiasts in the early 2000s. Trees are spreading and more cold-tolerant than many varieties.

Excellent quality fruit similar to Fuerte with a creamy texture. The big advantage: it ripens 2-3 months earlier than most winter avocados (ready as early as September). Oil content reaches an impressive 24%, making it exceptionally rich and buttery. Fruit hangs well on the tree and improves with time.

Never commercially grown but highly valued by home growers. Nearly extinct until California Rare Fruit Growers saved it through grafting.