Organic 'Floriani Red Flint' Popcorn
Organic 'Floriani Red Flint' popcorn (Zea mays) from Gaia seed company, a red Italian flint corn with a rich and traditional flavor
'Floriani Red Flint' corn is an exceptional heirloom variety originating from the Italian Alps , where it has been selected for centuries by local farmers for its quality and hardiness. Its deep red kernels produce cornmeal and polenta with a rich, sweet, and distinctive flavor. Rediscovered and introduced to North America by SESE and Fedco Seeds in 2009 thanks to William Rubel, this ancient corn is now sought after for its consistent yield, incredible flavor, and unique culinary qualities.
Although it is primarily used for culinary processing, its red ears are also beautiful as decoration.
Companion plants : Beans, Cucumber, Melon, Parsley, Potato, Pumpkin, Squash
Enemy plants : Tomato
Spread/carry : High and sturdy stem
Plant height : 180 to 220 cm
Quantity per packet : 60 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Red grains, alpine variety, ideal for polenta and semolina, rich traditional flavor
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Rich taste, perfect for flour and polenta
Cold tolerance : Average (heat plant)
Farming method
Sow directly when the soil reaches 19°C (66°F) . Cover the seeds with soil 2.5–5 cm (1–2 inches) deep. Grow in full sun (level 3) with consistent watering (level 3). Space plants 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) apart, with 60–90 cm (24–35 inches) between rows. As with all corn, it is best to sow in blocks to ensure good pollination. Germination takes 5–8 days at temperatures between 15–32°C (59–90°F) (optimum 29–32°C / 84–90°F).
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the silks are dry , the kernels are fully formed and have reached their characteristic red color . To dry the ears: fold the husks back, tie them together, and hang them in a dry, warm, and well-ventilated place for a few weeks.
Usage ideas
• In traditional polenta of exceptional richness
• To make homemade red cornmeal
• In red cornbread , spectacular and tasty
• For autumn decorations
• As fine flour for pasta or rustic desserts
'Floriani Red Flint' corn is a prestigious heirloom variety, prized for its culinary heritage, unique color, and rich flavor. A must-have for gourmet gardeners and lovers of Italian traditions.
