The University of California, Riverside has signed an exclusive license agreement with Westfalia Fruit Estates, a South African company, to market ‘GEM,’ an avocado variety developed by UC Riverside researchers.

Named after the initials of avocado researcher Grey E. Martin, ‘GEM’ fruit are produced on a semi-compact, vase shaped tree. The fruit’s skin color turns from green (when on the tree) to a dark burgundy/black when ready to eat.

The tear-drop shaped fruit are borne typically interior in the tree, mostly in clusters, thus protecting the fruit from the elements.

The ‘GEM’ variety can grow anywhere in the world where growing conditions are similar to Southern California’s (San Diego–San Luis Obispo counties).

The variety’s attractive look and high quality are what got Westfalia interested in marketing the fruit worldwide.

For more information, please visit: http://newsroom.ucr.edu/2635