About
This fast-growing annual which produces tender, well-filled kernels of yellow corn-on-the-cob. The plants grow to 1 - 1.5m with sword-shaped green leaves up the stem. The cobs form from female flowers in the axils of the lower leaves, whilst the male flowers form at the top. The cobs are ready to harvest August-September.
About the genus
A genus of five, large, flowering plants the grass family. The most important species, Zea mays is widely cultivated food crop. Male flowers are borne in large, terminal inflorescences (tassels) and female flowers are hidden in clusters in the leaf axils
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesPrairie planting, borders, naturalistic schemes.
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a warm sheltered spot in a block rather than as a row, to improve pollination by the wind. Water regularly. For more advice, see sweetcorn cultivation.
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to seeds being eaten by mice and seedlings pulled up by pigeons
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free