Glass Gem Popping Corn is a stunning heirloom variety that defies the expectation that edibles should be merely functional. The translucent kernels shimmer with jewel-like colors that shift across the cob like strands of glass beads, earning this corn its enchanting name. Beyond its breathtaking beauty, it delivers on flavor and versatility: the kernels pop into firm, delicious morsels, but can also be parched, ground into meal, or simply admired on the stalk. This tall, vigorous heirloom thrives across hardiness zones 1 through 13 and reaches maturity in 105 days, making it achievable for most growing seasons.
Full Sun
Moderate
1-13
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Moderate
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Few vegetables blur the line between ornamental and edible quite like Glass Gem. The 3- to 8-inch ears display an seemingly endless palette of colors, with each kernel glowing with translucent beauty that catches light like polished gemstones. Plants are sturdy and ambitious, growing to 9 feet tall and producing multiple side shoots when given a long enough season, which means you get both visual drama in the garden and genuine eating quality in the kitchen.
Glass Gem earns its place in the kitchen as a popping corn that produces firm, satisfying kernels when heated. Beyond popping, the kernels can be parched (a traditional preparation of dried corn), ground into flour or cornmeal for baking and cooking, or simply dried and stored whole. The ears themselves are so visually striking that they function beautifully as table decorations or autumn displays, blending culinary purpose with ornamental appeal.
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Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last spring frost date in soil temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Transplant outdoors only after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before moving them to the garden. Transplant after your last frost date when soil temperatures reach 60 degrees or warmer. Space plants 3 inches apart in full sun.
Direct sow seeds into warm soil after all frost danger has passed and soil temperature reaches at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant in full sun for best results.
Harvest Glass Gem when the ears have fully matured and the kernels have hardened completely, typically around 105 days after planting. The cob should feel solid when squeezed, and the husks will begin to dry and curl back naturally. Snap or cut the ears cleanly from the stalk. For popping, allow the ears to cure further in a dry location for several weeks before shelling and storing the kernels.
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