It all depends on your location. In the USA, the word corn is used for Zea mays, the plant in this photo. Here, the word maize often refers to the colorful seeds of a variety of corn that is sometimes called Indian Corn. In some parts of the world, the word maize is used for Zea mays, the plant in this photo. In other parts of the world, the word corn is used for any small, hard grain. Confusing, isn't it? That is why scientists use the scientific name, Zea mays, because it means the same thing no matter where you live.