Japonica Striped Maize Heirloom Flint Corn Seeds

Turn a sunny garden bed into a living display of striped leaves and wine-colored tassels. Japonica Striped Maize is a Japanese heirloom flint corn with long leaves marked in green, cream, yellow, and pink. Its deep burgundy to nearly black kernels bring a second season of interest in dried autumn arrangements, or can be dried thoroughly and ground for cornmeal. This is ornamental grain corn, not sweet corn for eating fresh on the cob.

Why Grow Japonica?

• Color from the leaves up: Lengthwise stripes give the foliage a distinctive look before the ears mature.
• Every planting is different: Variegation varies naturally; some plants are greener than others.
• Richly colored grain: Burgundy kernels complement the wine-purple tassels.
• Heirloom and open-pollinated: A traditional variety for edible landscapes and gardeners who enjoy unusual corn.

Planting and Growing

Direct sow after frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to at least 60°F. Choose full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Sow 1–2 inches deep and keep the seedbed moist but not waterlogged. Germination generally takes 7–10 days under suitable conditions.

Thin to about 10–15 inches between plants. In square foot beds, use 1 plant per sq ft, arranging plants in a block rather than a single narrow row. Aim for at least three to four short rows so wind can move pollen between tassels and silks. Allow surrounding room for foliage and access. An isolated decorative stalk may grow beautifully but set poorly filled ears.

Plants generally reach 5–6 feet tall. Incorporate compost and fertilize according to soil needs. Maintain steady moisture, especially during tasseling and ear development. Watch for corn earworms, borers, and aphids. Rotate planting areas and remove crop debris after harvest.

Harvest Details

Maturity: Approximately 75–85 days from sowing under favorable conditions; allow additional time for dry grain and fully cured ornamental ears.
Corn type: Heirloom, open-pollinated ornamental flint corn.
Foliage: Variable green, white to cream, yellow, and pink longitudinal stripes.
Kernel color: Deep burgundy to crimson-black.
Growth habit: Upright annual, approximately 60–72 inches tall.
Best uses: Edible landscapes, garden borders, dried autumn displays, and dried grain for milling.
Botanical name: Zea mays.

For dried ears, wait until husks are papery and kernels are hard. Harvest before prolonged wet weather damages the ears, then finish drying in a protected, airy place. Grain must be thoroughly dried before airtight storage. This variety is not a substitute for tender sweet corn. If saving seed, plan isolation from other corn varieties because corn is wind-pollinated and crosses readily.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for your garden.