Discover the Top 10 Corn Types

Corn, also known as maize, is a staple food in many cultures around the world. With its versatility and nutritional value, corn comes in various types, each with its own unique characteristics. Let's dive into the top 10 corn types that you should know about.

1. Dent Corn

Also called field corn, dent corn is the most widely grown type of corn in the United States. It gets its name from the indentation or "dent" that forms on the kernels as they dry. Dent corn is primarily used for animal feed, cornmeal, and corn syrup production.

2. Sweet Corn

Sweet corn is the type of corn that is commonly consumed as a vegetable. It is harvested when the kernels are in the milk stage, making it sweet and flavorful. This type of corn is a popular choice for grilling, boiling, or steaming.

3. Popcorn

Popcorn is a type of corn with a hard outer shell that, when heated, allows the kernel to explode and puff up. This unique characteristic makes popcorn a favorite snack for movie nights and gatherings. It is available in various colors and sizes.

4. Flint Corn

Flint corn, also known as Indian corn, is characterized by its hard outer layer and vibrant colors. This type of corn is often used for ornamental purposes, such as decorations during the fall season. Flint corn is not typically consumed directly but can be ground into cornmeal.

5. Flour Corn

Flour corn, as the name suggests, is a type of corn that is high in starch content, making it ideal for milling into corn flour. This fine-textured corn is commonly used in baking, especially for making cornbread, tortillas, and other baked goods.

6. Pod Corn

Pod corn is a unique type of corn that forms extra husks or "pods" around the kernels. While not as commonly grown as other types of corn, pod corn is an interesting variety to explore for its unusual appearance.

7. Waxy Corn

Waxy corn is a type of corn that contains a high amount of amylopectin, a type of starch that gives it a waxy texture. This corn variety is often used in the production of food products such as cornstarch, adhesives, and thickeners.

8. High Amylose Corn

High amylose corn is a type of corn that contains a higher percentage of amylose, a resistant starch that is beneficial for digestive health. This corn variety is often used in the production of resistant starch for dietary supplements and food products.

9. Floury Corn

Floury corn is a type of corn that has a soft, starchy endosperm, making it ideal for milling into corn flour. This type of corn is commonly used in the production of cornstarch, corn syrup, and other food products.

10. Broom Corn

Broom corn is a type of corn that is grown for its long, sturdy stalks that are used in the production of brooms and brushes. While not typically consumed as food, broom corn plays a vital role in various industries, such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Exploring the diverse world of corn types can open up a whole new appreciation for this versatile crop. Whether you're enjoying a fresh ear of sweet corn or popping a bowl of popcorn, each type of corn brings its own unique qualities to the table.

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Learn about the different corn types before you purchase corn seeds so you know exactly what you will be growing. Not all corn is sweet. Most people want to grow sweet corn for the incredible sugary taste, but most varieties of corn are not sweet.

David's Garden Seeds® has seeds for most of the corn types discussed on this page.

Happy Growing!