Setaria italica aka Dwarf Setaria

Setaria italica, or foxtail millet, is an annual grass. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Kew records it as a crop plant originating in China. No truly wild population is known from the supplied account. Farmers grew it in India and China around 5000 BC. Its cultivation later spread to many parts of the world. It remains a food crop in warm temperate and tropical regions.

This fast-growing grass forms upright clumps with few side branches. The reported height spans about 1–5 feet [0.3–1.5 metres]. A separate height entry gives 2.5 feet [0.75 metres]. Its dense root system has thin, wiry adventitious roots. Established plants develop deep roots that help them withstand drought. Wind carries its pollen. The crop produces edible seeds, which form its main harvest. The supplied species account gives no detailed leaf or flower description.

Grow foxtail millet in full sun and well-drained soil. It accepts soils ranging from light sand to heavy clay. Fertile ground gives the best results. It prefers slightly acid soil but tolerates a wider pH range. The stated preferred pH range is 6–6.8. Its broader tolerance extends from pH 5.5 to 8.3. It grows best with daytime temperatures of 16–26°C. Frost damages this crop, so its drought tolerance does not imply cold hardiness. Tropical growers also cultivate it at higher elevations.

Sow the seed directly where the plants will grow. Heavy clay can make seed germination difficult. Once rooted, plants can cope with long dry spells. The account gives no species-specific pest or disease details. Its documented value lies chiefly in grain and other useful products. People grow much of the crop for their own households. A smaller amount enters international trade. The straw also provides material for thatched roofs and bedding. Processors can extract oil from the bran.

Cooked seeds serve as a grain in sweet or savoury dishes. They can take the place of rice in meals. Ground seed supplies flour for porridge, cakes and puddings. Sprouting the seed before use can give it a sweeter taste. The source also records local medicinal uses for this species. Such use does not establish that it treats illness safely. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards for foxtail millet. This is not a specific safety assessment for pets.