Four Striped Japonica corn stalks arranged on a white background.
Striped Japonica Corn on a white background.
Corn Seeds, Striped Japonica
A close-up of Striped Japonica Corn cobs and vibrant leaves on a wooden background.
A close-up macro view of Striped Japonica leaves taken in the corn field at Baker Creek.
Striped Japonica Corn and leaves grown in the UK from Baker Creek seed stock. Image courtesy Lucy Hutchins.
A trio of Striped Japonica Corn cobs laying on a bed of striped leaves.
Four Striped Japonica corn stalks arranged on a white background.
Striped Japonica Corn on a white background.
Corn Seeds, Striped Japonica
A close-up of Striped Japonica Corn cobs and vibrant leaves on a wooden background.
A close-up macro view of Striped Japonica leaves taken in the corn field at Baker Creek.
Striped Japonica Corn and leaves grown in the UK from Baker Creek seed stock. Image courtesy Lucy Hutchins.
A trio of Striped Japonica Corn cobs laying on a bed of striped leaves.

Corn Seeds,
Striped Japonica

3.713 Reviews#CN178 · 50 seeds
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Description

(Zea mays) Flint corn. Native American flint corn first reached Japan with Portuguese traders in the 1500s, where it was treated primarily as fodder for livestock. During Japan’s Edo period (1603–1867), the centralized government—largely vegetarian for religious reasons—discouraged meat consumption, livestock numbers fell, and the need for fodder corn plummeted, leaving the crop in relative obscurity. With the Meiji period (1868–1912), meat returned to the diet and the demand for corn rose again, and along the way it was recognized as a tasty human food as well. From that long arc came a striking ornamental: Striped Japonica, bred in Japan and introduced to America in the 1870s. In about 85 days, plants reach around six feet, with foliage developing brilliant multicolored stripes of green, white, pink, and yellow—some stalks staying green, others carrying all four colors. Wine-colored tassels and crimson-black kernels add a tropical note in borders or containers, and the sturdy stalks can even serve as a trellis for climbers like sweet pea. When dried, the kernels can be ground into a tasty meal. We worked for years to find a pure strain, as much of what was sold was badly contaminated by GMO corn, and we may now present a strain that tested Non-GMO. Japonica is a stunning treasure from historic Japan.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
85–95
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Striped Japonica corn after the last frost when soil has warmed to at least 60°F. It thrives in long, warm growing seasons and performs well in most temperate regions with full sun exposure. In cooler zones, start seeds indoors in biodegradable pots and transplant carefully once soil warms. 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 in nutrient-rich soil. Space plants 8–12 inches apart in rows 30–36 inches apart. Plant in clusters or blocks of four or more rows to ensure wind pollination. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to maintain airflow and strong growth. Avoid planting near other corn types to prevent cross-pollination if saving seed.

How to Grow

Provide regular watering, especially during tasseling and ear fill. Apply organic fertilizer or compost once plants reach knee height and again as tassels form. Striped Japonica corn is both ornamental and functional—its pink-striped leaves add garden color, while the small, dark ears can be used for culinary or decorative purposes. Harvest when husks turn brown and ears are firm.

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

Can Striped Japonica corn be eaten or is it just ornamental?

It’s both! While prized for its showy foliage, Striped Japonica produces small, colorful ears that can be ground into cornmeal or enjoyed as decorative corn once dried.

What makes Striped Japonica corn unique?

Its foliage features bold stripes of green, pink, and white—making it one of the most ornamental corn varieties. It also produces stunning dark crimson colored ears that add visual appeal to any garden.

How can I keep the foliage colors vibrant?

Ensure full sun, balanced soil nutrition, and consistent moisture. Avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen, which can reduce the distinctive striping and favor plain green leaf growth.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

3.7 / 5 13 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Striped foliage: Leaves streak green, white, pink and purple in full sun.

  • Deep purple kernels: Ears dry to burgundy-black, best for meal or decor.

  • Strong germination: Nearly every seed comes up and grows fast.

  • Tall and top-heavy: Stalks can flop in wind; give them a stake.

  • Heads up: Striping varies; shaded or inner plants may stay green.

More to grow!

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