Mountain Morado Corn cobs arranged with kernels on a patina copper background.
A gardener holding a braided Mountain Morado Corn garland.
A macro close-up view of a trio of Mountain Morado Corn cobs.
A garland of braided Mountain Morado Corn against a rocky background.
A close-up of Mountain Morado Corn growing in the garden. Image courtesy of Lucy Hutchins.
Mountain Morado Corn cobs arranged with kernels on a patina copper background.
A gardener holding a braided Mountain Morado Corn garland.
A macro close-up view of a trio of Mountain Morado Corn cobs.
A garland of braided Mountain Morado Corn against a rocky background.
A close-up of Mountain Morado Corn growing in the garden. Image courtesy of Lucy Hutchins.

Corn Seeds,
Mountain Morado

3.84 ReviewsSKU: #CN194Min. seed count: 75
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Description

(Zea mays) This amazing black corn from Montana, called Mountain Morado, grows even in the north. It's a deep purple, anthocyanin-rich flour corn selected by Ed Shultz, who spent 30 years developing it. Ideal for northern gardeners wanting to grow dark purple corn for the healthful drink chicha morada. This variety adjusts well to long days and cool nights, maturing early in areas with shorter days. The short, stocky plants yield two ears each, featuring 8-row, long slender cobs, suitable for milling into fine flour.

Growing Tips: Mountain Morado corn grows best in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Plant in full sun to ensure rapid growth and optimal cob production. Consistent moisture is crucial, especially during tasseling and ear development stages. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
85–90
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Mountain Morado corn when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. This variety typically takes about 85-90 days to mature, making it suitable for regions with shorter growing seasons as well. Plant in blocks rather than single rows to enhance pollination, which is crucial for full kernel development​. 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

Direct sow seeds 1-2 inches deep and 8-12 inches apart in rows spaced 24-30 inches apart. Thin seedlings to about 12 inches apart once they reach a few inches in height. Planting in blocks of at least four rows ensures better pollination. Succession planting every 2-3 weeks prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

Mountain Morado corn requires regular watering, especially during critical growth stages. Corn plants benefit from consistent moisture and a balanced organic fertilizer applied throughout the growing season. Avoid overhead watering during pollination to prevent poor kernel set. Practice crop rotation and companion planting to enhance soil fertility and reduce pest issues​.

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 Mountain Morado corn be grown in containers?

While it's possible to grow corn in large containers, it's generally not recommended due to the space requirements and the need for effective pollination. If you do choose to grow it in containers, ensure enough plants for proper pollination and consider hand-pollinating to ensure good kernel development.

What are the common pests for Mountain Morado and how can I manage them?

Common pests include corn earworms and European corn borers. Monitor your plants regularly and apply organic insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) at the first sign of infestation. Ensure good garden hygiene by removing plant debris and practicing crop rotation to reduce pest buildup.

What can I cook from Mountain Morado corn?

Mountain Morado corn is versatile and can be used to make various dishes, including cornbread, tortillas, and polenta. Its high anthocyanin content gives the flour a distinctive purple color. This corn can also be used to make the traditional South American drink chicha morada. Its soft flour starch makes it easy to grind and ideal for a range of culinary applications.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

3.8 / 5 4 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Strong germination: Every seed came up, in about a week once the soil was warm.

  • Ears on most stalks: Most got one to three ears per stalk, even in a small raised bed.

  • Milled into blue flour: Dark kernels ground into blue corn flour for muffins.

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