corn

Corn is so easily recognizable by most people that it doesn't beg for much of a description. The corn plant has a pithy nodded stalk supported by prop roots. The staminate (male) flowers form the tassel at the top of the plant. The pistillate (female) flowers are the kernels on the cob, which is enclosed by a leafy husk. Beyond this extend threadlike styles and stigmas or corn silk which catch the pollen. The entire plant with its ornamental tassel and ears has been a motif of American art since colonial times.