Zea mays convar. indurata
Striped maize - the colourful highlight for your garden
A real rarity is striped maize, also known as Zea mays ‘Japonica’, an old and fascinating variety of maize that is often grown in conservation gardens and by lovers of old cultivated plants. The colourful stripes are the result of genetic variations that create the characteristic play of colours. Striped maize is a unique and beautiful plant that has both aesthetic and cultural value. Both the leaves and the cobs are real eye-catchers: The leaves of striped corn are green with striking creamy white to pink and purple stripes. These colour patterns are particularly attractive and make the plant an eye-catcher in the garden. The red-coloured cobs themselves are edible but very hard, making them ideal for popcorn. The plants typically reach a height of around 1.5 to 2.5 metres and are robust and hardy.