CLASSIFICATION OF MAIZE TYPES

1. Dent corn (Zea mays var identata sturt):- This is the most common type grown in SA. Dent formation on the top of the kernel having yellow or white colour. The depression or dent in the corn of the seed is the result of rapid drying and shrinkage. Of the soft starch.

2. Flint corn (Zea mays var indurate sturt):- It is widely grown and cultivated in India. Endosperm of kernel is soft and starchy in the centre and completely enclosed by a very hard outer layer. The kernel is rounded on the top. The colour may be white or yellow. Grown in Europe, Asia, central America and South America. Flint corn is widely grown in India.

3. Popcorn (Zea mays var verta sturt):- It possess exceptional qualities. Size of kernels is small but the endosperm is hard. When they are heated, the pressure build up within the kernel suddenly results in an explosion and the grain is turn out. Grains are used for human consumption and is the basis of popcorn confectionery. Its cultivation is mainly confined to new world.

4. Flour corn (Zea mays var anylacea sturt):- It possess a soft endosperm. Kernels are soft and though all coloured corns are grown but white & blue are the most common. They are like fruit kernels in shape. Grown in USA & S. Africa.

5. Sweet corn (Zea mays var Saceharata sturt):- The sugar and starch makes the major component of the endosperm that results in sweetish taste of the kernels before they attain the maturity and after maturity, the kernels become wrinkled. The cobs are picked up green for canning and table purpose. Mainly grown in North half of the USA.

6. Pod corn (Zea mays var tunicate kulesh):- Each kernel is enclosed in pod. It is a primitive type of corn and hence of no importance.

7. Waxy corn (Zea mays var ceratina Kulesh):- 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.