Among the OvaHimba of Namibia's Kaokoland, herding livestock falls within the domain of men and constitutes their principal economic activity. The cultivation of maize, however, falls within the economic domain of women. Maize is, in real terms, the staple food of the Himba. Yet, in spite of the Himba's real dependency on maize, it is a low status food, because its cultivation and preparation are considered to be singularly female activities. Conceptually, for a Himba to be properly nourished he must have milk and meat.
Pink Himba Corn
An eye-catching heirloom-style corn variety with stunning shades of pink, magenta, lavender, and deep purple kernels. Pink Himba Corn produces long decorative ears packed with vibrant color and unique texture, making it perfect for ornamental displays, crafts, seed saving, roasting, grinding into cornmeal, or adding dramatic beauty to the garden. Tall vigorous stalks thrive in warm weather and create a striking centerpiece in garden beds or small farm plots.
Features
Rare pink and purple kernel coloration
Excellent for ornamental use and drying
Tall productive plants with multiple ears
Great for seed saving and specialty gardens
Can be used for flour, roasting, or decorative harvests
Growing Instructions
Planting Time:
After the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (16°C).
Sunlight:
Full sun minimum 68 hours daily.
Soil:
Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of compost or organic matter.
Seed Depth:
Plant seeds 11.5 inches deep.
Spacing:
1012 inches between plants
2436 inches between rows
Watering:
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during germination and ear formation.
Germination:
714 days under warm conditions.
Days to Harvest:
Approximately 90110 days.
Pollination Tip:
Plant in blocks instead of single rows for better pollination and fuller ears.
Harvesting:
Allow ears to mature and dry on the stalk for the deepest color and best storage quality.
Packet Back Blurb
Bring bold color and rare beauty to your garden with Pink Himba Corn a stunning ornamental heirloom producing dazzling pink and purple ears that turn every harvest into a showpiece.
