Zea mays

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SweetcornVegetableFamily: Poaceae

Height: 1.5mSpread: 60cm
Half hardy

Foliage colour:

Green

Position

Sun Exposure:

Full sun

Aspect:

South facing, west facing

Soil

Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Believed to have been first cultivated in Mexico, sweetcorn, Zea mays, was introduced into Europe in the 16th century and soon became a staple crop. Its deliciously sweet cobs can be barbecued to eat hole or boiled with the kernals separated to add to dishes. There are many sweetcorn varieties, ripening early, mid-season or late, and are therefore suited to different parts of the UK.

Grow Zea mays in blocks rather than in rows, to ensure full wind-pollination. It needs full sun, in moist but well-drained, fertile, preferably acid or neutral soils. Tassels at the ends of cobs turn black as an indication of ripeness.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecSowyes**yesPlantyes**yesHarvestyes**yes

Zea ‘Mays’ and wildlife

Zea ‘Mays’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Zea ‘Mays’ poisonous?

Zea ‘Mays’ has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Cats

Cats

Is not known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is not known to attract Horses

Horses

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People