RANK

PLANT

POPULATION

DESCRIPTION

1

Wheat (Triticum spp.)

750 billion

A staple crop globally, wheat is essential for food security and is grown extensively worldwide.

2

Rice (Oryza sativa)

700 billion

Another crucial staple food, particularly in Asia, rice is cultivated in a variety of environments.

3

Corn (Zea mays)

300 billion

Widely used for food, animal feed, and biofuel, corn is one of the most significant crops worldwide.

4

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.)

200 billion

Grown mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, sugarcane is a primary source of sugar and bioenergy.

5

Soybean (Glycine max)

100 billion

Important for oil production and animal feed, soybeans are a major crop in the Americas and Asia.

6

Barley (Hordeum vulgare)

70 billion

Barley is used for food, animal fodder, and brewing, and is particularly resilient in arid conditions.

7

Potato (Solanum tuberosum)

40 billion

As a key food source in many countries, potatoes are versatile and can thrive in various climates.

8

Cassava (Manihot esculenta)

30 billion

Known for its drought resistance, cassava is a staple in many tropical regions and is a major source of carbohydrates.

9

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas)

20 billion

Rich in nutrients, sweet potatoes are widely cultivated for their edible tubers and are important in many diets.

10

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)

15 billion

Tomatoes are essential in global cuisine and are grown extensively for their fruits, contributing to both nutrition and economy.