Broomcorn Millet: A Non-Native Grass with Limited Garden Appeal
If you’ve stumbled across the name broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum ruderale) in your gardening research, you might be wondering whether this grass deserves a spot in your landscape. Let’s dive into what we know about this somewhat mysterious plant and help you decide if it’s right for your garden.
What is Broomcorn Millet?
Broomcorn millet is an annual grass that belongs to the diverse world of graminoids – that’s botanist-speak for grass and grass-like plants. This includes not just true grasses, but also sedges, rushes, and other similar plants that share that characteristic blade-like appearance.
As a non-native species, broomcorn millet wasn’t originally part of North America’s natural plant communities. However, it has established itself in the wild and can reproduce without human intervention, particularly in certain regions.
Where Does It Grow?
Currently, broomcorn millet has been documented growing in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Its presence in these northern states suggests it can handle cooler climates, though its exact preferences and growing requirements remain largely undocumented.
Should You Plant Broomcorn Millet?
Here’s where things get tricky. While broomcorn millet isn’t known to be invasive or particularly problematic, there’s also very little information available about its garden performance, wildlife benefits, or aesthetic qualities. This lack of documentation suggests it’s not commonly cultivated or widely recommended for landscaping purposes.
Since detailed growing information is scarce, successfully cultivating this plant could be challenging for home gardeners. You’d essentially be experimenting without much guidance on its preferred conditions, care requirements, or potential issues.
Consider Native Alternatives Instead
Rather than taking a chance on this poorly-documented non-native grass, consider these fantastic native alternatives that offer proven benefits:
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – A beautiful native prairie grass with stunning fall color
- Buffalo grass (Poaceae dactyloides) – Perfect for low-maintenance lawns in appropriate regions
- Native sedges – Excellent for wet areas and wildlife habitat
- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – A close relative that’s well-documented and supports wildlife
The Bottom Line
While broomcorn millet isn’t necessarily harmful to grow, the lack of available information about its cultivation, benefits, and potential drawbacks makes it a risky choice for most gardeners. Your time and garden space are precious resources – why not invest them in well-researched native plants that you know will thrive and support local wildlife?
If you’re specifically interested in annual grasses, consult with your local native plant society or extension office. They can recommend species that are not only easier to grow successfully but also contribute meaningfully to your local ecosystem.
