What are the key factors affecting maize yield response to and agronomic efficiency of phosphorus fertilizer in China?

•Summarized China’s 7025 phosphorus (P) fertilizer field trials results on maize.•Average yield response to P (YRP) in China’s maize was 16.58 %.•Average agronomic efficiency of P (AEP) in China’s maize was 12.69 kg kg−1.•YRP and AEP are comprehensively affected by management and natural conditions.•Rational P fertilization should consider more on variety followed by soil fertility.