Corn

Corn is one of the most important foods in the world. It is also called maize in many countries. Corn plants are tall grasses that can grow higher than an adult. The part we eat is called an ear, which is covered in rows of kernels. Corn can be yellow, white, red, blue, or even rainbow colored.

A Plant With History

Corn was first grown thousands of years ago by Native Americans in Mexico. They turned a small wild grass into the corn we know today. Corn came to other parts of the world after explorers brought it back with them. Now farmers grow corn almost everywhere. It is the biggest crop grown in the United States.

Many Uses for Corn

People eat corn fresh off the cob, in soups, and in salads. Corn is also ground into flour to make tortillas, cornbread, and chips. Popcorn is a special kind of corn that pops when heated. Corn is used to feed farm animals too. It is even made into fuel for cars and plastic for cups.

Fun Facts

• Every ear of corn has an even number of rows of kernels.
• One ear of corn usually has about 800 kernels.
• There is a piece of corn silk for every single kernel on the cob.

Did You Know?

Corn grows on every continent except Antarctica. It is the only grain that came from the Americas.