Description
Standard packet contains approx 120 seeds
Zea mays
Golden Beauty is a rare South African heirloom dent corn with a story almost as remarkable as the maize itself, rescued from a Ficksburg farmer who had only two cobs of this variety left to his name. This open pollinated yellow corn traces its roots back to an 1877 Illinois lineage, once a respected standard variety in American corn breeding before disappearing from commercial production entirely.
Golden Beauty is wonderfully versatile in the kitchen. Picked young in the milk stage, the ears make excellent corn on the cob, best cooked as soon as possible after harvesting since the natural sugars begin converting to starch the moment the corn is picked. Left to fully mature and dry, the kernels grind down into a genuinely good quality cornmeal, prized historically for producing excellent cornbread and polenta. The cobs are also delicious simply roasted over an open fire, a simple and satisfying way to enjoy this old variety at its best.
Sow seed directly into a well prepared bed or raise seed using mix such as Living seeds Germination Mix , then transplant out once seedlings are well established and the danger of frost has passed.
Golden Beauty needs at least six hours of full sun daily and a rich, moisture retentive soil to perform at its best. Do not allow the soil to dry out at any stage of growth, and aim to drench the bed twice a week if conditions allow, as consistent moisture is essential for good cob development. Plant in a block rather than a single row to ensure good pollination, and aim for at least 40-80 plants in any one planting to maintain the genetic diversity needed for reliable seed saving from season to season. Harvest green for fresh eating as corn on the cob, or leave the husks to dry out completely on the plant before harvesting for grain. Once harvested dry, husk the ears and continue drying them in a well ventilated area to finish the process properly before storing.
