Andesite is an extrusive igneous, volcanic rock, of intermediate composition, with aphanitic toporphyritic texture. In a general sense, it is the intermediate type between basalt and dacite, and ranges from 57 to 63% SiO2 as illustrated in TAS diagrams. The mineral assemblage is typically dominated by plagioclase plus pyroxeneand/or hornblende. Magnetite, zircon, apatite, ilmenite, biotite, and garnet are common accessory minerals. Alkali feldspar may be present in minor amounts. 

Classification of andesites may be refined according to the most abundant phenocryst.

Andesite can be considered as the extrusive equivalent of plutonic diorite. Characteristic of subduction zones, andesite represents the dominant rock type in island arcs, such as the Aleutian arc in Alaska. The average composition of the continental crust is andesitic. Along with basalts they are a major component of the martian crust. The nameandesite is derived from the Andes mountain range.