Zea mays 'Amero' – Ornamental corn with striking colours for borders, containers and autumn decorations

Zea mays 'Amero' is a beautiful ornamental corn variety distinguished by its decorative leaves and colorful cobs. This variety is ideal for gardens, borders, container plantings, and as an autumn decoration, adding a tropical and colorful touch. Ornamental corn 'Amero' combines a sturdy, compact growth pattern with striking foliage and color, making it a real eye-catcher in any garden design.

External characteristics

Zea mays 'Amero' plants grow upright to a height of 150–180 cm, with sturdy stems that are highly wind-resistant. The leaves are long and narrow, often with deep green hues and sometimes purple-red accents, contributing to a tropical appearance.

The spadixes are decoratively colored, ranging from red and purple to golden yellow, and remain highly visible throughout the season. Because these spadixes are not intended for consumption, the focus is entirely on ornamental value and texture. The combination of leaf structure and colorful spadixes makes Amero perfect for autumnal garden scenes, borders, and potted arrangements.

Growth and cultivation

Zea mays 'Amero' is an easy-to-grow annual ornamental plant:

• Sowing period: Directly in the open ground after the risk of frost, or sow in pots or trays

• Planting distance: 25–30 cm between plants, rows at 60–70 cm

• Sowing depth: 2–4 cm

• Location: Full sun for optimal leaf color and cabbage development

• Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter

• Water: Water regularly, especially during the growing season.

Ornamental corn develops sturdy stems and abundant foliage that optimally supports the colorful cobs. It's an excellent plant for borders as well as pots and containers on the patio or balcony.

Applications

Zea mays 'Amero' is versatile and can be used in various ways:

• Borders and flowerbeds – Creates height, texture and autumn accents in the garden

• Containers and pots – Perfect as a solitary plant or combined with autumn flowers and ornamental grasses

• Autumn decoration – Colorful cobs are suitable for drying or decorative arrangements

• Garden Design – Add a tropical, architectural element to modern or natural gardens

Maintenance and tips

For optimal ornamental value:

• Keep the soil moist but well-drained

• Remove any old or damaged leaves for a neat appearance

• Support taller plants if they are exposed to wind or rain

• The colorful cobs can be harvested for drying or autumn decoration, which keeps the plant decorative for longer.

Ornamental value

With its striking leaf structure and decorative spadixes, Zea mays 'Amero' is a real eye-catcher. It brings vertical structure, color, and movement to borders, flower beds, or pots and is ideal for gardens with a tropical or autumn theme.