Corn, Ornamental and Popcorn

Introduction

Ornamental corn varieties are mostly flint type corns (Zea mays indurata) with hard variously colored kernels. While originally grown as food, today they are grown primarily for ornamental purposes. Popcorn (Zea mays everta) is a variant of flint corn that can be popped. Broom corn (Sorghum vulgare), which is commonly grown as an ornamental, is not actually corn, but rather a relative of the sorghum grown for syrup and seed.

All of these ornamental corns will grow in any sunny, well-drained, fertilized soil that will grow field or sweet corn. Adequate moisture, especially after the ears form, is necessary. Isolation from other types of corn is suggested. Bird damage can be a concern. Use nutrient and pest management recommendations for sweet corn.

Types and Varieties

Hybrids are available, but most ornamental corn varieties are open-pollinated. Seed can be saved if it is isolated from other types of corn including sweet corn and dent corns. Ornamental popcorn should be considered for miniature decorative ears and the dual purpose of popping.

Ornamental Corn and Popcorn Varieties
Full-sized Ornamental  Miniature Ornamental
Autumn Splendor Carousel
Bloody Butcher Indian Fingers
Earth Tones Dent Little Jewels
Fiesta F1  
Indian Art 104 Popcorn
Indian Art Cranberry Cherry Berry
Painted Mountain Red Strawberry Corn
Rainbow White Cloud
  Mini Blue
Broom Corn Robust 997 (R997)
Colored Uprights  
Red Broom Corn  
Texas Black  

Soil Fertility

See sweet corn Soil Fertility and Nutrient Recommendations in the next section.

Planting

Because of its hard seed coat, ornamental corn should be planted early to allow for full maturity on the stalks. Plant at a spacing of 9-10" within rows and 30-36" between rows at 1-1.5" deep. Keep ornamental corn away from sweet corn or popcorn that pollinates at the same time as ornamental corn.

Harvest

Harvest when the kernels are hard and bright and the husks are brown. Husk and hang to dry. Do not box or bag ears when they are first harvested, or they may mold. Mold may occur on the husk and the ear if proper handling and storage techniques are not used.