Cherokee White Eagle, Heirloom Dent Corn Seeds

Cherokee White Eagle, Heirloom Dent Corn Seeds — The Trail of Tears Corn Grown in the White House Garden

Cherokee White Eagle is a highly valued heirloom dent corn with deep cultural significance — carried along the Trail of Tears in 1839, cultivated for generations by Cherokee women using a kanona (a hollowed-out log), and grown in the White House Garden in 2011. Tall plants reaching 8–10 feet produce two ears per stalk, each 6–7 inches long with mottled blue and white kernels that may feature yellow or cream hues. Rich flavor makes it excellent for grits, cornmeal, and fresh sweet corn. A living piece of Cherokee agricultural heritage. 110 days.

Why Grow Cherokee White Eagle?

• Carried along the Trail of Tears in 1839 — a corn with profound historical significance
• Grown in the White House Garden in 2011 — recognized for its cultural importance
• Mottled blue and white kernels — 6–7 inch ears, striking and distinctive
• Rich flavor — excellent for grits, cornmeal, and fresh sweet corn
• 8–10 foot plants — two ears per stalk
• Open-pollinated — save seed year after year

Growing Notes

Direct sow outdoors after last frost when soil has warmed to at least 60°F. Plant in blocks of at least 4×4 for good wind pollination. Sow seeds 1 inch deep, 8–12 inches apart, in rows 30–36 inches apart. Water consistently. Allow cobs to fully dry on the plant for cornmeal and grits use.

Days to maturity: 110 days
Packet size: ~25, 50, or 100 seeds
Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, Dent Corn
Ear size: 6–7 inches
Plant height: 8–10 feet
Spacing: 8–12 inches in blocks
Sun: Full sun
USDA Zones: 3–12