Corn Seeds, Montana Lavender Clay
Montana Lavender corn with dried husks.
Montana Lavender Corn close-up with dried husks.
Corn Seeds, Montana Lavender Clay
Montana Lavender corn with dried husks.
Montana Lavender Corn close-up with dried husks.

Corn Seeds,
Montana Lavender Clay

4.84 Reviews#CN191 · 50 seeds
Price
Regular price $4.50
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Description

(Zea mays) Flour Corn. A stunning lavender flour corn with long slender 8-to 12- inch long ears in an attractive pastel shade that produces silky, soft cornmeal. This vigorous and early-producing corn was bred by Ed Schultz of Montana. Ed has made a name for himself as an expert corn breeder with great knowledge and respect for the Native American corn varieties that he loves to work with. One look at the unmistakable lavender kernels shows that this blended Native American variety is descended from the lavender parching corn of the Mandan tribe. In 1808, Thomas Jefferson received seeds of a lavender-colored Mandan Red Clay corn; he reported that the seeds were given to him by Lewis and Clark from their 1804 contact with the Mandan tribe in present day North Dakota. Schultz has taken the lovely lavender-clay color and rugged cold hardiness of Mandan corn while selecting for more slender and uniform ears and short, stout plants. A stellar feat of breeding from a solid foundation of superlative ancient genetics.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

This corn variety should be planted when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past., which can vary depending on your location. Typically, the soil should be at least 60 F for good germination. You can look up the last average frost date for your specific zone to determine the best planting time. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is 75-80 F. 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

Before planting, consider soaking the seeds in water for a few hours to speed up germination. Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep and space rows about 30-36 inches apart. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to about 12 inches apart to ensure proper growth and development. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil can enhance fertility and drainage​​. Succession planting prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

As the corn grows, apply a balanced fertilizer when the plants are about 6 inches tall and again when they start to tassel. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a stable soil temperature. Be vigilant about pest control, particularly for corn earworms and other common pests. Proper spacing and avoiding overhead watering can help reduce the risk of fungal diseases​​.

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 Montana Lavender Clay corn take to mature?

It typically matures in about 90 days.

Can Montana Lavender Clay corn be grown in containers?

Generally, it is not recommended due to its size and space requirements. corn typically needs ample space to grow and develop properly.

How should I store harvested Montana Lavender Clay corn?

For optimal storage, ensure that the corn is fully dried before storing. This variety of corn can be hung in a well-ventilated, dry area until the kernels are hard. Once dried, store the ears in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and pests. You can also shell the corn and store the kernels in airtight containers.

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Customer reviews

4.8 / 5 4 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Super early: Matures early and shrugs off light frost; a good northern corn.

  • Short stalks: Stalks 2 to 5 feet tall, often with two ears each.

  • Strong germination: Germinates reliably and grows well from a direct sowing.

  • Good flour corn: Soft kernels grind easily; prized for parching and cornbread.

  • Heads up: Deer, squirrels and raccoons go for it; plan on fencing.

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