Key Points
- Origin: Developed by Cliff England (England’s Orchard), utilizing a complex back-cross of the PPF 2-10 selection.
- Pedigree: (PPF 2-10 × Summer Delight) × PPF 2-10; genetically documented to share ≈89% similarity with Potomac.
- Fruit Metrics: Massive "Jumbo" classification (450–900 g range; typical 450–600 g).
- Sensory Profile: Highly sweet, intense tropical notes with a silky pudding texture.
- Seasonality: Predominantly a late-season ripener.
- Horticultural Value: Considered high-yielding and suitable for high-end boutique commercial production.
- Zone: USDA Zones 5–8 hardy.
- Availability: Scarce; primarily distributed through England’s Orchard or Peaceful Heritage nursery.
- Distinction: Biologically different from the simpler "Mammoth" cultivar.
Variety Description
Summary
Mammoth X is a specialist hybrid selection from the Kentucky-based program of Cliff England. It represents a "double cross" or back-cross aiming to maximize fruit mass while retaining the elite sensory traits of parent lines like Summer Delight. Mathematically documented as extremely close to the royalty-standard Potomac cultivar, it takes the "large fruit" concept one step further, with field records showing specimens occasionally nearing 1.75 lbs (795 g). It is a late-season powerhouse for growers in climate zones with a long frost-free autumn.
Genetics and Lineage
The variety is built on the PPF 2-10 experimental line. RAPD marker analysis (Neal Peterson’s research) established that PPF 2-10 is an 89% genetic match for Potomac. By crossing this foundation with the flavorful Summer Delight and then back-crossing, Cliff England locked in the massive size traits and refined the pulp-to-seed ratio. Note to collectors: Ensure the "X" suffix is present to guarantee this specific genetic lineage.
Fruit Characteristics
Scaling: Unlike standard pawpaws that peak early, Mammoth X is known for its late-season weight gain. Typical orchard-run fruit weighs between 450–600 g, but "show" specimens over 800 g have been documented in favorable years. Pulp and Palette: The flesh is vibrant and dense, offering a tropical cocktail flavor that isn't masked by bitter undertones. Seed Count: One of its most efficient attributes is the extremely low seed percentage by weight, maximizing the edible "yield-per-fruit."
Orchard Dynamics
Harvest Window: It matures in the heart of the late season. In northern zones, it requires a protected site with full solar exposure to ensure full ripening of its massive fruit. Growth Habit: Stable and productive; it is recommended for commercial trial by growers who focus on "fruit weight per hour of harvest" efficiency.
Management and Sourcing
Because it is a specialist selection, it is not widely commercially propagated. It remains a "rare" designation, usually available only through scion wood auctions or dedicated regional heirloom nurseries. It is prized by those who want "Potomac-tier" quality with even larger physical specimen size.
Conclusion
Mammoth X is a pinnacle hybrid that pushes the boundaries of the species. Its massive fruit, elite tropical flavor, and proven genetic pedigree make it a formidable choice for Zones 5–8 orchardists who have the season length to support late-season ripening. It is a true jumbo variety that delivers on the promise of "Bigger is Better."