Zea mays or corn (maïs)
The male and female flower, the corncob (kolf), are separated.
Corn originates from America; Columbus encountered the plant in Cuba and named it after the Indian word ‘mahiz’.
In North and South America corn is the most widespread grain. Only wheat and rice are more cultivated over the whole world. Summer warmth is required for its development.
There are some 500 sorts: some are rich in oil, others in starch and others in sugar. Maizena, custard and cornflakes all originate from Zea mais. But it is mainly used as fodder, because it is not rich in amino-acids.