The roots of maize are fibrous, and in addition to the radicle, nodal roots grow from the nodes of the stalks: those that grow from the underground nodes are called subterranean nodal roots and are generally 4-7 layers; those that grow from the nodes of the above-ground stalks are also called supporting roots and aerial roots and are generally 2-3 layers. The plant is 1-4.5 meters tall with cylindrical culms. The whole plant generally has 15-22 leaves, the leaf body is broad and long, and the leaf margins are often wavy. The flowers are unisexual and monoecious. Male flowers are borne at the top of the plant in panicles; female flowers are borne in the leaf axils in the middle of the plant in fleshy spikes. Male spikes generally bloom 3 to 5 days earlier than the female flower spathe.