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 ReviewsSKU: #CN183Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Zea mays) Flour Corn. The darkest colored corn known, it has a most delicious flavor and is believed to have one of the highest amounts of anthocyanins of any corn! The ancient Maiz Morado, also known as Kulli, originated in the Andes highlands of Peru. This is a special selection that has been bred for the past 20+ years in New Mexico to adapt to our North American latitudes and will grow and produce ears easily in most American gardens. This ancient corn is excellent as a flour corn or, picked young, as a flavorful sweet corn. It is also used in South America to brew a special and highly revered drink known as chicha morada. This drink had important ceremonial significance to the Incan Empire and civilizations before it. We love to make purple corn juice with cinnamon, clove and pineapple—a refreshing elixir bursting with antioxidants! Locals also use it to dye fabrics and cloth, and grind it into a beautiful flour/meal as well. 

Growing Tips: This variety thrives in well-drained, sandy loam to clay loam soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It's essential to prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to enhance fertility and moisture retention. This variety requires full sun and consistent moisture, with about 1 inch of water per week. Using mulch can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilizing with a balanced organic fertilizer or compost at planting and again as the plants grow can promote healthy development.

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

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?

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

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.

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