"Peruvian Purple" Corn, Maiz Morado, Inca Chicha, Peru, 6 sizes
AKA Kulli corn. A tall growing variety of heirloom Inca corn cultivated for thousands of years in the Americas. The stalks can grow up to 13 feet tall in a short time. Produces medium-sized ears with superb dark purple color (at high altitudes). Even the cobs are deep purple! Can be eaten young like sweet corn or dried on the cob. Makes a purple dye as well.
Common in Peru and throughout the former Inca empire, purple corn is used in Chicha Morada, a traditional drink made by boiling ground purple corn kernels with pineapple, cinnamon, clove, and sugar. Peruvian Purple is also used to make mazamorra, a type of pudding. One of the most popular purple corn food uses is in "Api," a smoothie served hot and sometimes referred to as the "Inca's dessert." It is also ground and made into bread and tortillas.
This corn variety seems to have additional medicinal value over other maize varieties. Peruvian purple maiz is a powerful natural antioxidant. The corn is unique among Peruvian grains because it is rich in anthocyanin, a powerful natural antioxidant that can prevent or slow the oxidation of molecules, which helps tissue regenerate and skin stay youthful, and wards off degenerative eye conditions and cardiovascular diseases by eliminating cholesterol and improving circulation. Anthocyanins help prevent cataracts, glaucoma and conjunctivitis. These compounds also have hemostatic properties because they help staunch blood flow and stop nosebleeds.
Because of its medicinal qualities, purple corn is considered a natural aide against various ailments. Its macro-nutrients – 11% protein, 3% oil and 80% starch – produce energy the body needs. This Andean corn also contains phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C. These micro-nutrients help keep the body healthy and help keep obesity, diabetes and arthritis at bay. Eating purple corn stimulates collagen growth, regulates blood pressure, cleanses the body of toxins, reduces inflammation and lowers the risk of cancer, according to some experts. A superior super-food.
Seeds are from Peru. Best if grown above 8,000 feet to retain the intense purple coloring. Check out the Montana Morado which is acclimated to the USA.