1846 J. Lindley 90 Pöppig says, that Ombrophytum, which in Peru springs up suddenly after rain, in the manner of the toadstool, is called Mays del Monte, in consequence of its resemblance to a kind of maize.]
1884 W. Miller 82/1 Mountain maize, the genus Ombrophytum.
1890 at Maize Mountain maize, plants of the genus Ombrophytum, said to be eaten like mushrooms.