Common Species of Maize in India

In India several species and variety of maize are cultivated. Some of these are described as follows:

1. Zea mays indica: It includes different varieties suitable for different regions and climatic conditions. This is the most commonly cultivated maize species in India.
2. Sweet Corn (Zea mays saccharata): Sweet corn varieties are famous for their tender and sweet kernels. They are often consumed as a vegetable when the kernels are immature.
3. Flint Corn (Zea mays indurata): In some regions of India flint corn is cultivate. It is known for its hard, glassy kernels and is used for various purposes, including decoration and culinary applications.
4. Dent Corn (Zea mays indentata): Dent corn, also known as field corn,is characterized by a small dent or dimple at the top of each kernel. It is grown for both human consumption and animal feed.
5. Pod Corn (Zea mays tunicata): It known for its unusual husk-like coverings over each kernel. It is found in limited regions in India.

Zea mays is the scientific name of maize. Zea mays belongs to the plant genus Zea and is a member of the Poaceae family, commonly referred to as the grass family. It originated in Mexico, where it was domesticated from a wild grass called teosinte. There are numerous varieties and cultivars of maize, each adapted to specific growing conditions and uses. Common types include dent corn (used for animal feed and processed foods), sweet corn (eaten as a vegetable), popcorn (used for making popcorn snacks), and flint corn (known for its hard, colorful kernels).