Description
KJ Pinks, also known as Paxton Prolific, is a grafted custard apple variety developed for reliable fruit production and heavy cropping. It is particularly appealing to home gardeners because it can set a good crop without the need for hand pollination.
The fruit has the familiar knobbly custard apple skin, with creamy white flesh inside. When ripe, the flesh is soft, juicy, sweet and richly flavoured, with the smooth texture that makes custard apples such a popular backyard fruit.
Why grow KJ Pinks?
KJ Pinks is a selection that traces back to Pinks Mammoth, but was selected for improved fruit set. It is known for setting heavy crops without hand pollination, making it a practical choice for home gardens.
The ripe fruit can be eaten fresh with a spoon or added to fruit salads, smoothies, yoghurt and desserts.
Custard apples provide vitamin C, dietary fibre, potassium and other nutrients, while their creamy texture makes them an easy fruit to enjoy fresh.
Growing KJ Pinks
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Consistent watering is important, particularly during flowering, fruit set and fruit development.
KJ Pinks can become a medium-sized tree, but pruning can be used to maintain a manageable shape and size in the home garden.
Because this is a grafted tree, it retains the characteristics of the selected KJ Pinks / Paxton Prolific variety rather than the variable fruit quality of a seed-grown custard apple.
During the early years of fruiting, avoid allowing a young tree to carry an excessive crop. Selective thinning can help reduce stress on a young tree and allow it to establish a stronger framework.
Variety: KJ Pinks / Paxton Prolific
Type: Grafted
Pot size: 4L
Mature height: Approximately 2–5 m, depending on conditions and pruning
Position: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained soil
Water: Consistent moisture during establishment and fruiting
Fruit: Sweet, juicy and creamy
Pollination: Sets fruit without hand pollination
Season: Generally autumn and winter in southeast Queensland
