Setaria
Grass family
Gramineae
See-tair'i-a. Chiefly agricultural, warm-country grasses, comprising about 125 species, the one below chiefly a forage or fodder grass.
Description
Leaf blades flat and narrow. Flowers in a large, spikelike panicle, the spikelets having beneath them bristles that persist after the spikelet has fallen. Fruit an edible grain in
S. italica
.
How to Grow
In early spring work up the soil and lay down a 2-3 ft. (60-90 cm) square of clear plastic. Secure the edges with soil. Cut a 6-in. (15-cm) cross in center, and plant seeds where they can grow through the slits. Cover plastic with dried grass clippings to shade out weeds. Prefers warm weather.
Setaria italica
Foxtail Millet
. 3-5 ft. (0.9-1.5 m) high. Leaf blades rough, the basal sheath fringed with hairs. Spikes to 12 in. (30 cm) long, the bristles green, purplish, or brown. Eurasia. Many cultivars are available, some with very large spikes. Drooping plumes are attractive cut. Hardy annual.
