Pearl Millet

Pearl millet is a warm-season annual grass grown as a grain and forage crop as well as an ornamental. Its upright clumps produce long, brushlike flower heads in summer, while cultivar foliage and seed-head colors vary. ## Growth and use The [University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension profile](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/ornamental-millet-pennisetum-glaucum/) describes *Cenchrus americanus* (also known as *Pennisetum glaucum*) as a freely tillering bunch grass, generally 2–5 feet tall, with foot-long summer inflorescences. It lists pearl, cattail, and bulrush millet among common names and notes its long history as food and forage. Ornamental selections are chosen for foliage and flower heads rather than grain yield; the species is also used in birdseed. ## Siting Plant after the soil has warmed and provide full sun for sturdy growth. Wisconsin Extension recommends light, well-drained soil but notes that most selections tolerate many soil types. Its extensive root system supports drought tolerance, although regular water can encourage more vigorous growth. ## Maintenance Start seed in warm conditions or sow outdoors after the soil has warmed. Tall forms usually have sturdy stems, while late-sown plants in short-season areas may not have time to flower. Leave seed heads for birds or cut them for fresh arrangements; Extension also recommends them for dried arrangements.