Australia has welcomed a new variety of avocado, known as the Jala, which is making headlines for its substantial size, weighing approximately 1-1.2 kilograms. This variety is distinguished not only by its size, which is four times that of typical avocados found in supermarkets, but also by its extended shelf life post-opening, remaining ripe for up to five days due to its slow oxidation rate. Jess Fleming, a manager at Flemings Nursery in Queensland, highlighted the Jala avocado's unique attributes, noting its exceptional taste profile described as creamy, buttery, and nutty.
The Jala avocado is currently available exclusively in Queensland, with plans for distribution across Australia by early 2025. According to Fleming, the Jala variety boasts a higher flesh-to-seed ratio compared to the commonly known Hass avocado, despite possessing a larger seed. The fruit features green skin that may become spotty over time, though this does not impact the quality of the flesh within. Contrary to concerns regarding the potential for a diluted flavor due to its size, the Jala avocado is reported to maintain a rich taste.
Flemings Nursery's initial offering of Jala trees to Bunnings Warehouse and local nurseries in Queensland saw a complete sell-out of 1,800 trees. An additional 5,000 trees are expected to be available by March 2025. The Jala avocado is also promoted as an ideal choice for home gardeners with ample yard space, requiring only sufficient drainage to thrive. Jala trees can reach heights of up to 10 meters under optimal conditions and are anticipated to bear fruit within two to three years.
Source: Mail Online