This genus comprises five sizable flowering plants belonging to the grass family. The primary species, Zea mays, is extensively grown as a food crop. Male flowers appear in prominent terminal clusters known as tassels, while female flowers develop in concealed groups within the leaf axils.

Zea diploperennis

Zea japonica 'Amero'

Zea mays, commonly known as sweetcorn, is straightforward to cultivate and offers a flavor that surpasses that of commercially available corn. There is a wide selection of varieties, including both traditional and contemporary types, accommodating most garden spaces and the shorter growing season typical in the UK. For gardeners with limited space, baby corn is a viable option. Sweetcorn is divided into three main categories. The 'Normal' variety, the original form of sweetcorn, boasts vigorous seeds but is less sweet than some newer cultivars. It is best consumed immediately after harvesting to prevent the sugars from converting into starch. The 'Supersweet' category contains corn with elevated sugar levels, but germination can be more challenging. It's important to avoid planting 'Supersweet' with other types to prevent cross-pollination, which can diminish sweetness. Lastly, 'Tendersweet' varieties offer a balance of tenderness and sweetness, though they are not as sugary as 'Supersweet' types and can be grown alongside other varieties without issue.

Zea mays

Zea mays 'ACX SS7078Y'

Zea mays 'ACX SS7403 RY'

Zea mays 'Achat'

Zea mays 'Adelfia'

Zea mays 'Agneta'

Zea mays 'Alamo Navajo Blue'

Zea mays 'Alborea'

Zea mays 'Alenka'

Zea mays 'Alessandra'

Zea mays 'Alhambra'

Zea mays 'Alicia'

Zea mays 'Alienta'

Zea mays 'Alojzia'

Zea mays 'Alvina'

Zea mays 'Amaize'

Zea mays 'Amida'

Zea mays 'Anasta'

Zea mays 'Anouka'

Zea mays 'Antonella'

Zea mays 'Aprilia'

Zea mays 'Aranka'

Zea mays 'Arnia'

Zea mays 'Aura'

Zea mays 'Aureliana'

Zea mays 'Aztec Black'

Zea mays 'Baccara'

Zea mays 'Balka'

Zea mays 'Balsamo'

Zea mays 'Baxxao'

Zea mays 'Belonia'

Zea mays 'Beltana'

Zea mays 'Bemol'

Zea mays 'Benicia'PBR

Zea mays 'Bexxin'

Zea mays 'Birko'

Zea mays 'Bisca'

Zea mays 'Blitz'

Zea mays 'Blue Jade'

Zea mays 'Bosphore'

Zea mays 'Boxxer'

Zea mays 'Boxxis'

Zea mays 'Britpop' (popcorn)

Zea mays 'Butterscotch'

Zea mays 'Buxxil'

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