Big Boy

Big Boy is a historic F1 hybrid tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) bred by Dr. Oved Shifriss and released in 1949 by W. Atlee Burpee & Co. in Pennsylvania. Characterized by an indeterminate, vining growth habit with regular green foliage and yellow flowers, the plant produces large, globe-shaped slicing fruit that ripen from green to a solid red exterior.

Distinguished by its meaty red interior and smooth skin, the cultivar delivers a sweet and balanced flavor accompanied by a distinct aroma. Reaching maturity roughly 78 days from transplant, Big Boy is a dependable high-yield selection developed primarily for open field cultivation, fresh slicing, and home canning.

Origin and Genetics

Bred by Dr. Oved Shifriss for W. Atlee Burpee & Co., Big Boy was introduced in 1949 in Pennsylvania as a commercial F1 hybrid. Because it is a first-generation hybrid rather than an open-pollinated variety, seed saved from harvested fruit does not breed true to type, requiring growers to source authentic hybrid seed each season.

Botanical Profile

The plant exhibits an indeterminate growth habit, developing vigorous vines with standard regular leaf foliage. Its yellow blooms give rise to large, smooth-skinned globe fruit. Internally, the tomatoes feature solid red, meaty flesh that holds its structure when sliced.

Growth and Performance

Big Boy is adapted for field production and requires full sun conditions to reach its potential. The cultivar is rated in the high yield category, taking approximately 78 days from transplant to initial fruit harvest and continuing production over an extended season.

Flavor and Aroma

The culinary appeal of Big Boy rests on its balanced, sweet profile paired with pronounced aromatic notes. Its dense flesh provides substance without excessive liquid, creating a clean eating quality when consumed fresh.

Culinary Applications

With its large size and firm texture, Big Boy serves primarily as a slicing tomato suited for sandwiches and salads. While unsuitable for dense paste production, it is well adapted for canning preservation and general fresh culinary use.