Maiz Morado Corn on a white background.
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Maiz Morado Corn on a white background.
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli
Corn Seeds, Maiz Morado or Kulli

Corn Seeds,
Maiz Morado or Kulli

3.722 Reviews#CN183 · 50 seeds
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Description

(Zea mays) Flour Corn. In the Andes highlands of Peru, this ancient corn—known as Maiz Morado, or Kulli—took on a role far beyond everyday grain, prized for its deep color and beloved flavor. It is described as the darkest colored corn known and is believed to carry among the highest amounts of anthocyanins of any corn. For the past 20-plus years, a special selection has been bred in New Mexico to adapt it to North American latitudes, and it will grow and produce ears readily in most American gardens. Picked young, it can be eaten as a flavorful sweet corn, and allowed to mature it serves as an excellent flour corn. In South America it is famously used to brew chicha morada, a highly revered drink with ceremonial importance to the Incan Empire and civilizations before it. Locals also use the corn to dye fabrics and cloth, and grind it into a beautiful flour or meal. The plants grow to eight feet or taller and take about 100 days or so to mature.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
100
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Maiz Morado corn seeds directly in the garden when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. This typically means late spring or early summer, depending on your local climate and USDA zone. Ensuring the soil is warm enough is crucial for successful germination​​. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is 75-80 F. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep. Space the plants about 12 inches apart in rows that are 30-36 inches apart. For optimal pollination, plant corn in blocks of several short rows rather than single long rows. After sowing, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Corn has shallow roots, so careful weeding and mulching can help protect the root system and retain moisture​. Succession planting prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

As the plants grow, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer such as fish emulsion or blood meal to support their development. Regularly inspect for pests like corn borers and employ natural pest control methods if needed. Use row covers or erect barriers to protect against pests and wildlife. Staking the plants can help support them against strong winds. Weed control is vital; use hand-pulling, hoeing, or mulching to keep the area around the corn free of weeds​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Corn is wind pollinated and will easily cross with other varieties (including GMO corn!). You will need at least 1 mile of isolation to avoid cross pollination. You can also use staggered timing or caging techniques.
  • Hand pick ears when fully dried on stalk. Seeds keep best if left on the ear; just remove at planting time.
  • Sweet corn seeds will remain viable for 2 years; dent corn will last up to 5 years when properly stored.

FAQ

Questions?

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Customer reviews

3.7 / 5 22 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Sky-high stalks: Plants reach 8 to 12 feet and may need staking in wind.

  • Made for chicha morada: Deep purple kernels brew the traditional Peruvian drink.

  • Rich, sweet flavor: Tender kernels that stain fingers and lips purple.

  • Multiple ears per stalk: Good seasons give 2 to 4 ears, some only partly filled.

  • Heads up: Needs a long season; start early or ears may not mature.

More to grow!

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