Persea — 6 species

Persea is the genus that includes the avocado and its cultivars — Hass, Fuerte, Bacon, and others. Outdoors in warm climates they are productive fruit trees demanding full sun and deep, infrequent watering once established; as container plants they need a large pot, bright direct light, and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. All parts of the avocado plant — leaves, bark, fruit flesh, and seed — contain persin, a fungicidal toxin. The entire genus is toxic to cats and dogs, capable of causing vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory distress, per the ASPCA. Keep away from all pets.