Field Crops> Maize> Classification

Maize (Zea mays) is an annual plant which belongs to family Gramineae and Genus Zea. Zea mays L. has a normal chromosome complement of 10 pairs. It is divided into seven groups. The classification is based largely on the character of the kernels (Kipps, 1959).

(1) Zea mays indurata or 'Flint corn': The endosperm in this type of maize kernel is soft and starchy in the centre and completely enclosed by a very hard outer layer. The kernels are usually rounded but are sometimes short and fiat. Colour may be white or yellow. This is the type most commonly cultivated in India.

(2) Zea mays indentata or 'Dent corn': In this type of maize kernels have both hard and soft starches. The hard starch extends on the sides, and the soft starch is in the centre and extends to the top of the kernels. In the drying and shrinking of the soft starch, various forms and degrees of indentation result. This is the most common type of maize grown in USA

(3) Zea mays everta or 'Pop corn': It possesses exceptional popping qualities. Size of the kernels is small but the endosperm is hard. When they are heated the pressure built up within the kernel suddenly results in an explosion and the grain is turned inside out.

(4) Zea mays saccharata or 'Sweet corn': Kernels possess a considerable amount of sugar which absorbs water, making the cells turgid, on drying these cells collapse, making the grains shrivelled or wrinkled. It has sweeter taste than other corns.

(5) Zea mays amylacea or 'Soft corn': It possesses a soft endosperm. Kernels are soft and of all colours, but white and blue are the most common. They are like flint kernels in shape.

(6) Zea mays tunicata or 'Pod corn': The pod corns are characterized by having each kernel enclosed within a pod or husk. It is a primitive type of corn and hence of no importance.

(7) Zea mays Ceratina Kulesh or 'Waxy corn': The endosperm of the kernel when cut or broken gives a waxy appearance. It produces the starch similar to tapioca starch for making adhesive for articles.