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From sweet summer corn on the cob to autumn’s popcorn and flint corn, the world of corn (Zea mays) is surprisingly diverse. Originating from the teosinte plant in Central America thousands of years ago, corn has evolved into hundreds of different cultivars adapted to many climates and uses. This article will explore some of the most popular and interesting varieties that gardeners can consider for their plots.
Understanding Corn Types
There are six main types of corn: sweet corn, dent corn (or field corn), flint corn, popcorn, flour corn, and ornamental corn. Each has unique characteristics, kernel composition, and uses.
Sweet Corn Varieties
Sweet corn, the type most commonly grown in home gardens, is prized for its high sugar content. It’s best eaten fresh, grilled, or steamed.
- ‘Silver Queen’: This is a late-season variety known for its sweet, tender, white kernels.
- ‘Bodacious’: A popular yellow variety, ‘Bodacious’ is noted for its excellent flavor and tenderness.
- ‘Honey and Cream’: A bicolour sweet corn, this variety has a mix of yellow and white kernels, offering a unique, sweet flavor.
Dent Corn Varieties
Dent corn is typically used for livestock feed, but certain varieties are also used for cornmeal, corn flour, and corn syrup.
- ‘Golden Bantam’: An heirloom variety, ‘Golden Bantam’ has a traditional corn flavor and is also suitable for fresh eating.
- ‘Reid’s Yellow Dent’: This variety is particularly significant in the history of American agriculture and remains popular for its high yield and adaptability.
Flint Corn and Popcorn Varieties
Flint corn, often called Indian corn, has hard, multicoloured kernels and is often used for decoration. Popcorn, on the other hand, has a hard, starchy kernel that pops when heated.
- ‘Calico’: A variety of flint corn, ‘Calico’ has multicoloured kernels and is often used for fall decorations.
- ‘Strawberry’ Popcorn: This variety produces small, red kernels that pop white. It’s popular both as an ornamental variety and for its tasty popcorn.
Flour Corn and Ornamental Corn Varieties
Flour corn is high in starch and used for making corn flour. Ornamental corn varieties are typically grown for their decorative value, featuring uniquely coloured or shaped kernels.
- ‘Blue Hopi’: This flour corn variety has been cultivated by the Hopi people for centuries and is used to make a traditional blue cornmeal.
- ‘Glass Gem’: An ornamental variety, ‘Glass Gem’ features stunning, translucent, multicoloured kernels.
The diversity of corn varieties is a testament to this crop’s adaptability and the long history of cultivation and selection by humans. By selecting different varieties, home gardeners can enjoy a range of flavors, colours, and uses from their corn crop. From the sweet, juicy kernels of ‘Silver Queen’ to the multicoloured marvel of ‘Glass Gem’, there’s a corn variety out there to suit every garden and palate. Happy gardening!