Four ears of Japanese Black Sticky Corn on a white background.
Japanese Black Sticky Corn showing multiple colors.
Japanese Black Sticky corn close-up
Corn Seeds, Japanese Black Sticky
Corn Seeds, Japanese Black Sticky
Four ears of Japanese Black Sticky Corn on a white background.
Japanese Black Sticky Corn showing multiple colors.
Japanese Black Sticky corn close-up
Corn Seeds, Japanese Black Sticky
Corn Seeds, Japanese Black Sticky

Corn Seeds,
Japanese Black Sticky

4.510 Reviews#CN190 · 75 seeds
Price
Regular price $4.75
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Description

(Zea mays) Sweet Corn. Black Sticky is one of those corns that feels both deeply traditional and wonderfully mysterious. In Japan it is prized as a sweet, waxy corn used for mochi and for fresh eating, especially when harvested young as the kernels begin turning light purple. Steamed or grilled, it has a subtle sweetness and a satisfying sticky texture that’s beloved across Asia, where roadside vendors often sell baskets of hot sticky corn. At full maturity the kernels deepen to a beautiful glossy black, arranged in 12 to 15 rows on ears 7 to 9 inches long. This Japanese strain was selected from seeds brought from China around 1800, but the larger history of sticky corn remains an open and fascinating question. Some scholars hold to the conventional account of corn arriving in China through Portuguese trade in the 1500s, while others have argued for earlier movement across the Pacific. However the story ultimately unfolded, this variety stands as a beautiful expression of long culinary tradition and seed adaptation.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
100–110
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Japanese Black Sticky corn in late spring, when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. This variety thrives in USDA zones 4-11, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates. The corn typically takes about 100 to 110 days to mature, so plan your planting schedule accordingly to avoid frost damage during the growing season​​. 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 the seeds into the garden, placing them 1-2 inches deep and 12 inches apart. Space rows 30-36 inches apart to provide enough room for the tall stalks, which can reach up to 6.5 feet. Planting in blocks rather than rows improves pollination and, consequently, the yield. Succession planting prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

Ensure consistent moisture levels by watering deeply at least once a week. Enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or a balanced organic fertilizer before planting. As the plants grow, side-dress with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to support their development. Monitor for pests such as corn borers and earworms, using organic pest control methods like neem oil or diatomaceous earth if needed. Regular weeding and mulching can help manage weeds without disturbing the corn’s roots​​.

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

How long does it take for Japanese Black Sticky corn to mature?

This variety typically takes about 100 to 110 days to mature.

Can Japanese Black Sticky corn be grown in containers?

Due to its height and the need for multiple plants for proper pollination, it is better suited for garden beds rather than containers.

Is Japanese Black Sticky corn drought-tolerant?

While it has some tolerance for dry conditions, regular watering is crucial for the best yield and healthiest plants.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 10 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Vigorous and tall: Hardy stalks of 7 to 12 feet, unfussy even in heat and storms.

  • Many ears: Two or more ears per stalk, with side shoots producing too.

  • Chewy, filling kernels: Pick young for sweetness; mature ears are sticky and hearty.

  • Early harvest: First ears picked in July from a May sowing.

  • Not like sweet corn: Dense, waxy texture; boil or steam, as grilling dries it out.

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