Plant of The Day: Corn (Zea mays)

Corn

History

Believed to be domesticated in Mesoamerica by the Olmec and the Mayans

Mayan Corn God

History

2500 B.C. - Corn spread through much of the Americas

History

15th and 16th centuries - Corn was brought to Europe by the explorers and traders

Characteristics

Scientific name: Zea mays

Has 6 major types (dent, flint, pod, popcorn, flour, and sweet)

Type of fruit: Grain

Has shallow roots, susceptible to droughts

Could grow in varied climates

DIMBOA

Immature corn shoots accumulate a strong antibiotic called DIMBOA

Natural defines against insects, fungi, and bacteria

Lessens as the plant matures

DISTRIBUTION OF CORN

ALL AROUND THE WOOOOOOORRLD

Someone famous

The End