Calico Popcorn is a striking corn variety that delivers both visual drama and genuine popcorn performance. Its kernels arrive in a stunning mix of yellow, brown, white, purple, red, and blue, making it as beautiful standing in the garden as it is dried and hung for autumn decoration. Growing 6 to 8 feet tall and reaching harvest in 90 days, this frost-tender annual thrives across hardiness zones 1 through 13 when planted after the last frost. It's the kind of corn that makes you want to grow it twice: once to admire the dried ears, and again to pop them for winter movie nights.
Full Sun
Moderate
1-13
96in H x 6in W
—
Moderate
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Calico Popcorn delivers genuine dual-purpose appeal. The kernels pop most consistently if you freeze them first, then toss them directly into hot oil, a simple technique that elevates the whole snacking experience. Those jewel-toned kernels in yellow, brown, white, purple, red, and blue create dried ears so visually compelling they're worth displaying as autumn decorations long before you ever think about popping them.
Calico Popcorn shines in two distinct roles. It's a decorative corn, stunning when dried and displayed as an autumn centerpiece or strung as seasonal decoration. When you're ready to harvest for eating, the kernels pop into tender, fluffy popcorn, making it ideal for wintertime snacking straight from your own garden.
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Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date. Plant seeds 3 to 4 inches deep in soil warmed to between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Allow ears to fully mature on the stalk and dry naturally in the field until the husks turn papery and brown, typically around 90 days from planting. The kernels should feel hard and fully set when you press them. Once harvested, continue drying the ears indoors in a warm, well-ventilated space until the kernels reach proper moisture content for popping.
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