Tutelo Strawberry Corn in a colander on a white background.
A close-up of Tutelo Strawberry Corn kernels on the cob.
Four Tutelo Strawberry Corn cobs arranged on white background.
Tutelo Strawberry Corn in a colander on a white background.
A close-up of Tutelo Strawberry Corn kernels on the cob.
Four Tutelo Strawberry Corn cobs arranged on white background.

Corn Seeds,
Tutelo Strawberry

SKU: #CN114Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Zea mays). Flint corn. A beautiful and rare landrace variety from the Tutelo peoples, an Eastern Siouan tribe who lived in the Piedmont of Virginia and North Carolina, and later parts of western Maryland. The last of the Tutelo died in the 19th century, leaving other indigenous peoples to steward this culturally significant corn, which was planted during the Strawberry Moon Ceremony. The short, 4- to 6-foot plants bear two cobs each. When ground and cooked as meal or grits, the corn retains its pink hue and offers a hint of sweetness. This variety might have gone extinct but for the efforts of William Woys Weaver of the Roughwood Seed Collection. William acquired a small amount of Tutelo Strawberry corn from Theodore Brinton Hetzel, a Quaker activist who worked closely with the Cornplanter Senecas in Warren County, PA, to stop a dam project that would eventually displace them from tribal land. After their forced relocation, Hetzel inherited a large collection of seeds for safekeeping.

Growing Tips: Tutelo Strawberry corn thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with consistent moisture. Incorporate organic matter to enrich the soil and maintain a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Monitor for pests like corn borers and aphids, and employ organic pest control methods as needed.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
110–120
Planting Depth
1–1 ½ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost date, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F. In cooler regions, using black plastic mulch can help warm the soil before planting. 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

Plant seeds 1 to 1.5 inches deep in rows spaced 30–36 inches apart. Within each row, space seeds 8 to 12 inches apart. For optimal pollination, plant in blocks of at least four rows rather than single rows. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per spacing after emergence.​

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during tasseling and ear development. Apply a nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer when plants are knee-high and again when tassels appear. Hill soil around the base of plants to provide support and prevent lodging. Regularly inspect for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly.​

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 in an airtight container.

FAQ

Is Tutelo Strawberry corn edible?

Yes, Tutelo Strawberry corn is edible. As a flint corn, it has hard kernels suitable for grinding into cornmeal or making hominy. It's not typically eaten fresh like sweet corn.

Can I grow Tutelo Strawberry corn in containers?

Growing Tutelo Strawberry corn in containers is challenging due to its height and pollination needs. If attempting, use large, deep containers and plant in blocks to facilitate pollination.

Why are my Tutelo Strawberry corn kernels not developing properly?

Poor kernel development often results from inadequate pollination. Ensure plants are grown in blocks rather than single rows to enhance wind pollination. Hand-pollination can also improve kernel set.

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