Zea mays Seeds | Black Maize
LATIN NAME: Zea mays
COMMON NAME: Black Maize, Black Corn
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Black Maize, Zea mays is a noteworthy species. Pollinating insects take to the flowers at once, adding a little wildlife interest to its garden value. It is hard to name another plant that gives this much for this little trouble.
Science & Biotechnology
Seed science, comparative botany and horticultural selection all touch on Zea mays, a representative of the Zea group with clear practical value. This research sits alongside a much older body of Indigenous Andean agricultural knowledge documenting deliberate cultivation of many distinct traditional corn colour varieties for different culinary purposes. Continuing work by breeders and collectors keeps good seed of this species moving through the trade.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Black Maize for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Its distinctive appearance and genuine cultural depth make it a worthwhile addition for gardeners interested in traditional corn diversity beyond standard yellow sweet corn. Mature plants need little attention in a well-chosen position.
Corn feeds the world, and corn silk is its gentle medicine: the golden styles are a traditional diuretic tea for urinary comfort across Asia and the Americas; the germ oil is rich in vitamin E.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Black Maize under ordinary good conditions. Sow seed directly into a loose, well-drained mix at a shallow depth, keeping it consistently moist. Full sun and warm soil suit this crop well, and corn is best sown in blocks rather than single rows to ensure effective wind pollination and good kernel development. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in full sun with steady moisture. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
It is a solid representative of the Zea group, true to type from seed. The essentials are simple: full sun, drainage and patience while it establishes.
Related Reading
More species in the same orbit as Black Maize: