The avocado (Persea americana) is a tree originating in the Americas which is likely native to the highland regions of south-central Mexico to Guatemala. It is classified as a member of the flowering plant family Lauraceae. The fruit of the plant, also called an avocado (or avocado pear or alligator pear), is botanically a large berry containing a single large seed. The high fat and smooth texture of avocados make it a useful and diverse food in different cuisines, and is traditionally important in Mexican foods. The high nutritional value and concentration of fat, make avocados a commonly used food in vegetarian foods and generally is thought nutritious and healthy.
