Did you know that maize (better known as corn) is the largest production crop in the world and plays a central role in all of United States agriculture and food production. Explore the science of maize, one of the most significant crops to humankind for thousands of years, and why it continues to surprise us today.

Maize is the topic for an exhibit in Church Exhibition Gallery of the Lyman Plant House at the Botanic Garden of Smith College, 16 College Lane, Northampton, Massachusetts.

It explores how scientists utilize the process of evolution to encourage the selection of “functional”and useful mutations for increased disease resistance, healthier and larger plants, and maintained diversity.

“Maize: Mysteries of an Ancient Grain” opened last week and runs through December 15, 2013. It was organized by the Museum of the Earth at the Paleontological Research Institution.