Zea diploperennis (Gramineae): A New Teosinte from Mexico

Abstract

A perennial teosinte or "wild maize" endemic to the Cerro de San Miguel, Sierra de Manantlan, Jalisco, Mexico differs from Zea perennis by dimorphic rhizomes, robust habit, and a larger number of longer, laxer tassel branches. The fact that it is a diploid (2n = 20) has taxonomic and agronomic significance. The seeds are used locally for food.