A close-up of two Osage Brown corn cobs. Showcasing the beautiful brow color of the kernels.

Corn Seeds,
Osage Brown

SKU: #CN184Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Zea mays). A very unusual and beautiful colored corn. Kernels are a rich chocolaty brown and are a flour type brought to us by heirloom corn expert Stephen Smith. Perfect for grinding into a colorful corn meal and flour. Plants reach 4 to 6 feet tall and bear 1 or 2 ears. Also known as Fairfax Brown, Osage Brown is a heritage dent corn treasured for its deep, rich brown kernels and historical ties to the Osage Nation. Grown for centuries by the Osage people, who once farmed the river valleys in the Ozark hills.

Growing Tips: Osage Brown corn thrives in warm weather and well-drained, fertile soil. For best yield, plant in blocks of multiple short rows to promote cross-pollination. Regular moisture and nutrient-rich soil will ensure sturdy stalks and full, uniform ears.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
80–100
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Osage Brown corn after the last spring frost once soil temperatures reach at least 60°F. This warm-season heirloom requires a long, frost-free growing period of about 80–100 days. In cooler climates, early soil warming with black plastic can help speed germination. 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 in fertile, well-prepared soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Space plants 8–12 inches apart in rows spaced 30–36 inches apart. For proper pollination and ear formation, plant in blocks of four or more rows. Keep soil moist but not soggy until seedlings are established, and thin to maintain even spacing once plants reach 4 inches tall.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent watering, especially during tasseling and silking, when ears are forming. Apply organic fertilizer or compost tea when plants are knee-high and again at flowering. Mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. Osage Brown corn produces tall, stately plants with strong stalks and richly colored kernels that can be used for meal, hominy, or ornamental decoration once fully dried.

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

What makes Osage Brown corn unique?

Osage Brown, or Fairfax Brown, is notable for its deep bronze kernels and cultural heritage with the Osage people. It’s both ornamental and practical, excellent for grinding into flavorful cornmeal.

Can Osage Brown corn be grown in small gardens?

Yes, but for good pollination, it must be planted in blocks of at least four short rows rather than a single row. This ensures full, evenly developed ears.

How do I know when Osage Brown corn is ready to harvest?

Harvest when husks are completely dry and kernels feel hard to the touch. For seed or storage use, leave ears on the stalk until the plant fully dries.

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