Aonsu Pä-sakun'a'-mon Lenni Lenapi Sweet Corn (Lenni Lenape Blue Pulling Corn)
Zea mays subsp. mays
Seeds per pack ~ 50
Germination: 91% Nov 2024 Packed for 2025
DAYS TO MATURITY: 60-70 days
PLANT DESCRIPTION: (Zea mays subsp. mays) With a few white kernels, the majority of the kernels are purple-blue. Cobs are about 6 to 8 inches long and well-formed. One or two ears are produced per plant as the plant grows to about 6 or 7 feet tall. The flavor is sweet and rich, and some kernels even at the milk stage are purple.
HISTORY: Sweet Lenni Lenape blue (or "aonsu") corn from the Pä-sakun'a'-mon (or "Pulling Corn") subclan of the Tùkwsit (or "Wolf") clan, preserved by the Dean family of Washington County, Oklahoma.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: Rich in complex carbohydrates, corn provides a substantial source of energy, supporting daily activities and metabolic functions. It contains dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, aiding in regular bowel movements, and contributing to a sense of fullness. Corn is a good source of essential vitamins, particularly B-complex vitamins like thiamine and niacin, crucial for metabolism and overall well-being. Additionally, corn is a decent source of minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium, vital for bone health and muscle function. While lower in protein compared to some other grains, corn still contributes to the overall protein intake. The presence of antioxidants, including carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, further adds to the nutritional value of corn, offering potential eye health benefits.
FOOD PREP: Grilling enhances its natural sweetness and imparts a smoky flavor, making it a perfect addition to summer barbecues. Harvesting the kernels for use in salads, salsas, or as a topping for tacos adds a crisp and sweet element to various dishes. For a taste of tradition, you can also freeze or can the corn to enjoy its freshness year-round.
GROWING TIPS: Annual. Sweet corn seed requires a soil temperature of 65℉ to germinate well, otherwise seed may rot easily due to its high sugar content. Don’t rush your first planting; wait until after the first average frost-free date. Succession plantings can then be made 2-3 weeks apart. Sow seed 1 in. deep in rows 36 in. apart and thin to 6-12 in. apart within rows. Later, taller varieties need wider spacing than early, shorter varieties. For good pollination and well-filled ears, plant in blocks at least 5 rows wide.
NOTE: Corn smut forms large puffy, gray, irregular masses of fungus during dry hot weather. Corn smut is a delicacy in Mexico, but if you want corn rather than corn smut, remove and destroy the fungus; otherwise, the black spores will re-infest your corn for several years.
