Corn

Zea mays

Corn is a tall plant that grows big ears filled with yellow kernels. It's a popular food for people and animals!

Habitat: Farms and fields

Appearance

The Corn has tall, thick green stalks with long, broad leaves that reach towards the sun. At the top is a feathery "tassel" of male flowers, and lower down are ears covered in silky hairs, which develop into rows of colorful kernels.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderPoalesFamilyPoaceaeGenusZea

Corn

Interesting facts

Corn cannot plant its own seeds; it relies completely on humans to grow!

Corn is actually a giant grass, related to wheat and sugarcane!

Each tiny silk on a corn ear connects to one kernel! That's a lot of silks!

Wild corn from long ago had super tiny ears, only a few inches big!

Special abilities

Corn can use the wind to carry its lightweight pollen from the top tassel to silks on other plants, ensuring fertilization.

Corn has sturdy prop roots that grow out from the lower stalk, helping to anchor the tall plant against strong winds.

Measurements & details

Height: 150-300 cm
Spread: 30-60 cm
Bloom Season: Summer
Is Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Annual
Pollination Method: Wind

Ecological connections

eats

Human

Homo sapiens

Cultivated globally as a major food source.

eaten by

Western corn rootworm

Diabrotica virgifera

Larvae feed on corn roots, damaging the plant.

eaten by

Fall armyworm

Spodoptera frugiperda

Larvae chew on corn leaves and bore into ears.

eats

American Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

Often feeds on corn kernels in fields.

Traits

Summer Blooming

Enjoy the sunny days with these vibrant plants that show off their stunning flowers all through the warmest months, adding color to the long summer days.

Grain Crop

Discover important plants grown specifically for their small, edible seeds, which are a main part of food for people around the world.

Agricultural

Discover plants and animals that are part of farming, grown or raised by people to provide food and other useful resources.

Edible

Find plants that are safe and delicious to eat, offering tasty treats and nourishment from nature's pantry. Always check with an adult before tasting!