Description

Tom Thumb Popcorn is a compact heirloom popcorn variety known for its extremely small plant size and charming, miniature ears. Despite its petite stature, it produces high-quality popping kernels that are tender, crisp, and flavorful when popped. The small ears are often golden to pale yellow and make this variety especially popular for container gardening and small spaces.

This historic dwarf variety is one of the earliest popcorn types available to home gardeners, valued for its fast growth, ornamental appeal, and reliable popping ability. Its short plants are surprisingly productive and can thrive in gardens, raised beds, or even large containers while still producing usable harvests.

• Type: Open-pollinated heirloom popcorn (annual)
• Direct sow: After last frost when soil is warm
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing: 6–10 inches
• Height: 2–4 feet
• Ear size: 2–4 inches
• Days to harvest: 85–95 days

Tom Thumb Popcorn grows best in fertile, well-drained soil with regular moisture during early development. Because of its dwarf habit, it is well suited for small gardens and tight spaces, but it still benefits from planting in blocks to ensure proper wind pollination. Harvest ears once husks are dry and kernels are hard, then dry thoroughly before popping for best results.

Additional information