Setario

Setario is a genus of flowering plants in the grass family, Poaceae. These grasses are commonly known as bristlegrasses or bur bristlegrasses. The genus is characterized by having bristles or awns subtending the spikelets, which can aid in seed dispersal by attaching to fur or clothing.

Setario species are found worldwide in tropical and temperate regions. Many are considered weeds, particularly in agricultural settings, due to their ability to spread rapidly and compete with crops.

Some notable characteristics of Setaria species include:

• Annual or perennial growth habits.
• Inflorescence is typically a dense, cylindrical panicle or spike-like panicle.
• Spikelets are often surrounded by prominent bristles.
• Adaptable to a wide range of soil types.

Some species, such as Setaria italica (foxtail millet), are cultivated as important cereal crops, providing food and fodder. However, others, such as Setaria pumila (yellow foxtail) and Setaria viridis (green foxtail), are often considered problematic weeds.

The classification and identification of Setaria species can be complex due to morphological similarities and variation within the genus.