Teosinte (Zea mexicana)

Teosinte – Wild Ancestor of Maize

Zea mexicana, commonly called Teosinte, is a wild annual grass native to Mexico and Central America. It is recognized as the direct ancestor of domesticated maize (corn). Teosinte differs markedly from modern corn, producing multiple slender stalks, each bearing small, hard kernels enclosed in tough husks. It is a crucial species for understanding the evolution and genetics of corn. Teosinte grows in similar conditions to corn but is more drought-tolerant and branches prolifically.

Taxonomic Details