Heirloom Corn

Heirloom (Open Pollinated) Seed

Heirloom corn refers to traditional varieties that have been cultivated for generations, celebrated for their unique flavors, vibrant colors, and rich histories. These open-pollinated types, which include sweet, flint, and ornamental varieties, are known for their superior taste and nutritional value compared to many modern hybrids. Heirloom corn is not only versatile in culinary applications—used for fresh eating, grinding into meal, or making traditional dishes like tortillas—but also plays a crucial role in preserving agricultural biodiversity and cultural heritage. With a wide range of colors, from deep blues to striking multicolors, heirloom corn adds both beauty and flavor to gardens and kitchens alike.

Yellow Cónico corn is a traditional Mexican heirloom variety known for its distinctive, conical-shaped ears and vibrant yellow kernels. This Yellow Cónico is grown in the highlands of Atlacomulco in Estado de México and produces a light and lovely golden masa. This corn is highly prized for its versatility and excellent texture, making it ideal for a wide range of culinary uses, from making masa for tortillas and tamales to being ground into flour for baking. The plant is hardy and adaptable, thriving in a variety of climates, though it particularly excels in regions with warm temperatures and well-drained soil. The kernels have a slightly sweet, rich flavor that stands out in both savory and sweet dishes. Yellow "Amarillo" Cónico corn has deep cultural significance in Mexico, where it has been grown for centuries, and its open-pollinated nature makes it an excellent choice for sustainable farming practices. Whether grown for food or as part of a seed-saving program, Yellow Cónico corn continues to be a cherished variety for its unique taste and historical roots.

The Broom Blend is a high yielding, colorful and easy to grow corn that has been used for years in broom making. The vibrant fan-shaped seed heads come in a mix of gold, red, bronze and purple. (Does not produce ears of traditional corn.) The cut and dried mature straw can be used for a variety of crafts and dried arrangements, as well as brooms. Birds will love the seeds, too.

Reid's Yellow Dent Field corn is a traditional American heirloom variety known for its high yield, excellent versatility, and resilience. Originally developed in the 19th century, this corn was once a staple in Midwestern farming due to its ability to thrive in a range of soil types and climates. The kernels are large, golden-yellow, and dented, which is characteristic of field corn varieties. Reid’s Yellow Dent is primarily grown for its use in animal feed, as well as for grinding into cornmeal, flour, and masa for making tortillas, cornbread, and other baked goods. It's also popular for producing hominy and grits, and historically, it played a significant role in the production of corn syrup and ethanol. What makes Reid's Yellow Dent particularly valuable is its resilience in the field, with a high tolerance for drought and disease. This heirloom variety is open-pollinated, making it an excellent choice for sustainable farming and seed-saving. It has a robust history in agricultural development and remains a beloved variety for both small-scale and commercial farmers looking to grow an adaptable, productive crop with a deep connection to agricultural traditions.

Red Head broom corn produces a tall spray of seed heads at the top of the plant, laden with shiny red tiny sorghum seeds that birds love. Incorporate seeds into edible bird-feeder wreaths or leave the 2–3' sprays intact to add variety to traditional fall decorations.

Ohio Blue Clarage corn is a historic heirloom variety known for its distinctive blue kernels and rich flavor. Originating from Ohio, this variety has been cultivated for generations and is celebrated for its adaptability and resilience in various growing conditions. The plants typically grow tall, producing medium-sized ears with strikingly beautiful blue kernels that can also exhibit hints of purple or white. The unique coloration comes from anthocyanins, which are beneficial compounds found in blue corn. This corn is often used for making cornmeal, tortillas, and other traditional dishes, prized for its sweet, nutty flavor. Ohio Blue Clarage corn is well-suited for home gardens and small-scale farms, where it can thrive with proper care. As an heirloom variety, it contributes to agricultural biodiversity and is cherished by those looking to preserve traditional crops and flavors. Its heritage and versatility make it a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike, reflecting a rich agricultural history.

Bloody Butcher corn is a striking heirloom variety known for its deep red kernels and bold, rustic flavor. This ancient American corn is traditionally grown for both its ornamental beauty and its culinary versatility. The vibrant red and purple kernels make it an eye-catching addition to any garden, while the corn itself is prized for its dense, starchy texture, which is perfect for grinding into cornmeal, flour, and grits. Bloody Butcher corn is also commonly used in hominy and for popping. Its tall, robust plants are well-suited for a variety of growing conditions, thriving in warm climates with well-drained soil. As an open-pollinated variety, Bloody Butcher is excellent for sustainable farming and seed-saving, ensuring its continued presence in both historical and modern agriculture. This heirloom variety not only adds color and flavor to the kitchen but also carries a rich history, making it a favorite for gardeners and farmers alike.

Pink Xocoyul corn is a unique heirloom variety from the mountainous regions of Oaxaca, Mexico, renowned for its striking pinkish kernels and its rich, nutty flavor. This Tlaxacaltecan varietal of pink heirloom corn is akin to a Chalqueño, but a bit denser. This traditional corn is often grown in small, family-run farms and is prized for its ability to thrive in high-altitude, temperate climates. While it is traditionally used for atole dulce, a warm, sweet masa beverage, Xocoyul lends itself seamlessly to a variety of masa applications, such as quesadillas with fresh quesillo or festive pink tamales. Beyond its culinary uses, Pink Xocoyul corn is valued for its cultural significance in Oaxacan cuisine, where it plays a central role in regional food traditions. Like many heirloom varieties, it is open-pollinated, making it an excellent choice for sustainable farming and seed-saving. This beautiful corn not only adds vibrant color to dishes but also helps preserve a piece of Mexico's agricultural heritage.

Blue Cónico corn is a beautiful heirloom variety from Mexico, known for its striking blue-purple kernels and conical-shaped ears. This traditional corn is not only visually stunning but also prized for its rich, nutty flavor and excellent texture, which makes it ideal for grinding into masa to create tortillas, tamales, and other staple dishes. The plant is hardy and adaptable, thriving in a variety of climates, especially in higher altitudes, and is well-suited to organic and sustainable farming practices. Blue "Azul" Cónico corn is highly valued for its role in Mexican cuisine, where it adds both flavor and color to a wide range of dishes. As an open-pollinated variety, it is a favorite among farmers and gardeners who value biodiversity and the preservation of heritage crops, ensuring this ancient corn continues to be a significant part of Mexico's agricultural and culinary traditions.

Wapsie Valley heirloom corn is a traditional variety that hails from the Wapsipinicon River Valley in Iowa. Known for its rich history and unique flavor, this heirloom corn features tall, sturdy plants that produce large ears with colorful, often striped kernels ranging from yellow to blue and red. The kernels are prized for their taste and are typically used for making cornmeal, grits, and other culinary applications. Wapsie Valley corn is not just valued for its flavor; it also has good adaptability to different soil types and conditions, often thriving in diverse environments. As an heirloom variety, it is appreciated for its genetic diversity and resilience, making it a popular choice among organic and sustainable farmers. The corn is also sought after by home gardeners and those interested in preserving traditional agricultural practices. Overall, Wapsie Valley heirloom corn represents both a connection to agricultural heritage and a commitment to biodiversity.

Red Cónico corn is a striking heirloom variety from Mexico, known for its deep red kernels and distinctive conical shape. This traditional corn is prized for its rich, nutty flavor and excellent texture, making it ideal for grinding into masa for tortillas, tamales, or for use in savory dishes like soups and stews. The plant is hardy, thriving in a range of climates, particularly in high-altitude regions, and is often grown in smaller, family-owned farms where it has been cultivated for generations. Red "Rojo" Cónico corn’s deep cultural significance in Mexican cuisine, along with its vibrant color and versatility, make it a favorite for both home gardeners and farmers looking to preserve traditional varieties. Its open-pollinated nature also makes it a great choice for sustainable farming and seed saving.

Truckers Favorite Yellow is an heirloom yellow dent field corn that is excellent for roasting or frying or used as a dent. This variety stays fresh for a long time. Truckers Favorite Yellow stalks are 8-9' tall and ears are 8-10" and have 14-18 rows. This corn has high yields with good soil fertilization and is an excellent foliage for early fodder.

The Double Standard is the first ever bicolor, open-pollinated sweet corn on the market! This variety is an early maturing corn with strong germination in cool soil. The Double Standard was developed to grow well throughout the United States especially in Northern parts. This variety's ears grow up to 7" with 12-14 rows of yellow and white kernels. Double Standard has an excellent traditional corn taste. Its stalks grow to 5' or taller. Certified Organic. Learn more about our organic seeds.