Glass Gem Corn

Glass Gem Corn

Glass Gem Corn is a unique and visually stunning variety of corn that has gained popularity for its vibrant and translucent kernels. This article provides an overview of Glass Gem Corn, including its origins, characteristics, cultivation, and uses.

Origins

Glass Gem Corn was developed by Carl Barnes, a part-Cherokee farmer from Oklahoma, United States. Barnes dedicated several decades to preserving and improving traditional Native American corn varieties. In the late 1990s, he discovered a unique ear of corn with unusually colorful kernels. Intrigued by its beauty, Barnes began selecting and crossbreeding the corn to enhance its vibrant colors, resulting in the creation of Glass Gem Corn.

Characteristics

Glass Gem Corn is known for its kaleidoscope-like appearance, with kernels displaying a wide range of colors, including shades of blue, purple, red, yellow, and orange. The kernels are translucent, allowing light to pass through them, giving the corn a glass-like appearance. The exact color patterns and combinations vary from ear to ear, making each cob a unique work of art.

This variety of corn typically grows to a height of 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) and produces large ears with an average length of 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 centimeters). The corn kernels are dent corn, meaning they have a depression in the crown of the kernel.

Cultivation

Glass Gem Corn can be grown in a variety of climates, but it thrives in warm and sunny conditions. It is a relatively easy crop to grow, requiring well-drained soil and regular watering. The corn should be planted in rows, with each plant spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart.

To ensure successful pollination, it is recommended to plant Glass Gem Corn in blocks rather than single rows. This allows for better wind pollination, as corn is primarily pollinated by the wind. The corn typically takes around 80 to 100 days to reach maturity, depending on the specific growing conditions.

Uses

While Glass Gem Corn is primarily grown for its ornamental value, it can also be used for culinary purposes. The kernels can be dried and ground into cornmeal or used as a decorative element in various dishes. However, it is important to note that Glass Gem Corn is not as sweet as other corn varieties, so it may not be suitable for all culinary applications.

Additionally, Glass Gem Corn has become popular among crafters and artists for its unique appearance. The colorful kernels can be used in various art and craft projects, such as jewelry making, mosaics, and decorative displays.

See Also

• Corn
• Native American cuisine