Zea mays

Dakota Black is a striking heirloom popcorn developed in the early 1980s by David Podoll of Prairie Road Organic Farm in North Dakota. Released under an open-source seed initiative, this variety was bred for resilience, deep colour and superb popping performance. The plants grow to 1.8–2.4 m tall and produce one sturdy ear per stalk, measuring 13–20 cm long. Unusually, the ears often present with 15 kernel rows, a rare and stable trait that stands apart from the even-numbered rows found in most maize varieties.

It produces crisp, white popcorn with dark hulls that burst open during popping, offering a rich and hearty flavour. The kernels pop reliably in air poppers or on the stovetop. Fully dried ears also make beautiful additions to seasonal displays, thanks to their deep glossy colour and tight structure.

Sow seeds directly into warm soil once temperatures are consistently above 18 °C. Plant 2–3 cm deep, with spacing of 25–30 cm between plants and 75 cm between rows. Always plant in blocks of at least four rows to ensure full pollination. Ears are ready to harvest at 85–110 days when the husks are completely dry and the kernels are firm and glossy.

Livingseeds recommends a minimum of 40 plants. For seed saving, and to retain the unique traits of this variety, 80–100 plants should be grown to maintain genetic strength and diversity.

Standard packet contains approx. 120 seeds
Petite packet contains approx. 40 seeds