Panicum miliaceum, commonly known as proso millet, is an annual grass that was domesticated around 10,000 BP. It is native to the semi-arid regions of Northern China but is now cultivated in various parts of the world including Himachal Pradesh, Nepal, Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East, and the Great Plains of the United States. Proso millet is characterized by its short lifecycle, typically completing its growth in about 60 days, and its ability to thrive in drought conditions due to its deep root system.

Proso millet is valued for its rapid growth and drought resistance, making it an important grain crop in arid and semi-arid regions. It is used for human consumption, livestock feed, and as a cover crop to manage soil erosion. In cultivation, it requires minimal water and can grow in poor, well-drained soils, preferring full sun exposure. However, it can become invasive outside its native range due to its high adaptability and prolific seed production, so caution is advised when planting it in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0