Japanese Hulless Popcorn
Zea mays everta
Seeds per pack ~ 50
Germination: 90% June 2025 (Packed for 2026)
Origins and History
Japanese Hulless Popcorn (Zea mays everta) is an heirloom popcorn variety cherished for its smooth, nearly hull-free kernels that date back to early 20th-century seed exchanges. Despite the name, this variety was bred and popularized in the United States, where “Japanese” was often used in the early seed trade to evoke an image of novelty and delicacy. It represents one of the traditional everta corns—an ancient branch of maize first domesticated in the Americas thousands of years ago for its explosive popping ability. Over generations, seed savers have preserved the Japanese Hulless for its fine texture, tender popped kernels, and reliable yield.
Appearance and Characteristics
Japanese Hulless Popcorn plants grow to about 4–5 feet tall, producing small, compact ears typically 3–4 inches long. The kernels are ivory or pearly white, with a smooth, rounded form that pops into bright white, tender flakes. Unlike commercial hybrid popcorns, this heirloom variety is prized for its nearly hull-less texture after popping—leaving fewer hard fragments between teeth. Its upright plants are strong and adaptable, making it a favorite among home gardeners and heirloom corn collectors.
Culinary Uses
This popcorn variety produces light, crisp, and flavorful popped corn with a delicate crunch. Because it lacks tough hulls, it’s ideal for those who prefer a more tender snack. Japanese Hulless Popcorn can be air-popped, oil-popped, or used in stovetop pans. The popped corn takes well to seasoning—sweet (like honey or maple glaze) or savory (like sea salt, chili powder, or buttered herbs). It is also popular in homemade granola bars or trail mixes due to its tender texture.
Growing Tips
Japanese Hulless Popcorn thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It performs best in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–9. Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost date when soil temperatures reach 60°F (16°C) or higher. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and 8–12 inches apart, with rows spaced 24–30 inches apart. For good pollination and full ears, plant in blocks of at least four short rows rather than one long row. Keep soil evenly moist and weed-free through the growing season, as corn is a heavy feeder that benefits from compost or side-dressed organic fertilizer at midseason.
Harvesting Guidance
Japanese Hulless Popcorn is typically ready to harvest 90–105 days after planting. Wait until the husks are dry and papery, and kernels are firm and glossy. Harvest the ears and allow them to cure in a dry, airy location for two to three weeks before shelling. Once fully dry, store kernels in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. For best popping results, allow kernels to dry further until they reach a moisture level of about 13–14%. Properly stored, they will retain excellent popping quality for several seasons.
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.
