Probable RNA-binding protein. Involved in the regulation of leaf initiation rate and shoot development. Seems to act more predominantly in the early stages of the leaf development, rather than in the later phase. Expressed below the shoot tip down the flanks of shoot apex in an alternating pattern. Not expressed in root tips, leaves or immature ears (female inflorescences). Plants almost double the number of leaves, and plant height are reduced to about the half that of the wild-type. Internode number is increased and their elongation is significantly reduced. The terminal tassel (terminal male inflorescence) is replaced by an ear-like (female-like) inflorescence.