The Avocado (Persea americana) is a medium-sized, evergreen tree belonging to the laurel family (Lauraceae). It is indigenous to the Americas and was first cultivated by Mesoamerican tribes over 5,000 years ago, valued for its large, oily fruit. This likely originated in the highlands that connect south-central Mexico and Guatemala. The avocado fruit, sometimes called an alligator pear or avocado pear, is botanically classified as a large berry with a single large seed. Avocado trees are partially self-pollinating and are commonly propagated through grafting to ensure a consistent fruit yield. Today, avocados are grown in tropical Mediterranean climates across various countries, with Mexico being the world's top producer, accounting for nearly 30% of the global harvest in 2020.

In India, avocados were introduced in the 19th century by travelers from Sri Lanka, reaching places such as Wayanad in Kerala, Coorg in Karnataka, and Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu.