Lula Avocado

'Lula' is a Florida avocado cultivar that originated in Miami in 1915 from a 'Taft' avocado seed planted on nurseryman George B. Cellon's property. Named after his wife, Lula Cellon, DNA analysis indicates this variety is a cross between Guatemalan and Mexican type avocados. The tree is recognized for excellent eating qualities, steady production, and superior cold hardiness.

Lula produces medium to large pear-shaped fruit (8-18 ounces) with glossy green skin and rich, creamy flesh. The flavor is nutty and similar to Hass but smoother with a touch of sweetness. Flesh is yellow in the center fading to light green at edges with high oil content (12-16%). Fruit matures October through February with peak harvest mid-October through late December.

First fruited in 1919 and began commercial propagation in 1921. Lula became the most important commercial avocado in South Florida during the early 1900s. Despite later competition from newer varieties, it continues to be widely sold and is commonly used as rootstock for grafted avocado trees. Trees are maintained in the USDA's germplasm repository in Miami. The variety is valued particularly in Texas for its salt tolerance.