California is known as the birthplace of the Hass avocado, and consumers wait patiently each year for California Avocado season to enjoy this locally grown and sustainably farmed fruit. While we all know the best avocados have California in them – that doesn’t just mean the Hass variety.
Meet the Gem avocado, a lesser-known but equally delicious variety that’s beginning to make a name for itself among avocado enthusiasts.
What Makes the Gem Avocado Special?
The Gem avocado is a relatively recent addition to the world of commercially available avocados. Like many avocado varieties, it thrives in California’s warm, sunny climate, paired with its rich, well-drained soils, allowing the Gem avocado to grow to its full potential.
This avocado variety got its name from the initials of the University of California researcher who developed the GEM avocado –— Dr. Grey E. Martin. This variety, stands out with its vibrant, glossy, green skin –— which often features yellow, goldish freckles –— and has proven to be a true “gem” in the world of avocados.
Gem avocados have a medium sized seed, slightly smaller than that of a typical Hass avocado, allowing for more delicious avocado in each piece of fruit. It also features a thicker skin, which means it’s especially easy to peel or to scoop out the flesh.
True Gem of This Avocado – Delicate Taste and Velvety Texture
One of the key features that sets the Gem apart from other avocados is its smooth and velvety texture, which is a bit firmer than other avocado varieties. This firmer texture may be due to lower oil content found in this variety, but it’s still rich and satisfying.
Many consumers enjoy the Gem avocado for its mild, delicate and, some say, nutty flavor. The subtle taste makes the fruit perfect for eating straight from the peel with just a pinch of salt or for slicing and adding to your favorite recipes including salads, sandwiches or wraps.
Availability: A California Summer Delight
The Gem avocado is a seasonal variety, with the peak harvest season typically running from late spring through early fall, much like other California-grown varieties. Due to its limited availability and increasing popularity, Gem avocados aren’t always easy to find, but they are worth seeking out during their prime growing season. You’ll most often see Gem avocados at farmer’s markets or in specialty grocery stores, particularly those that focus on local, seasonal produce.
If you’re fortunate enough to find them, be sure to grab a few — they don’t last long on the shelves! Plus, the Gem’s availability during the summer months makes it the perfect addition to summer salads, grilled dishes and picnic fare. Give the Gem a try –— you may just find your new avocado obsession!
