Panicum

Panicum (panicgrass) is a large genus of about 250 species of grasses native throughout the tropical regions of the world, with a few species extending into the northern temperate zone. They are often large, annual or perennial grasses, growing to 1–3 m (3–10 ft) tall.

The flowers are produced in a well-developed panicle often up to 60 cm (24 in) in length with numerous seeds, which are 1–6 mm (0.04–0.24 in) long and 1–2 mm (0.04–0.08 in) broad. The fruits are developed from a two-flowered spikelet. Only the upper floret of each spikelet is fertile; the lower floret is sterile or staminate. Both glumes are present and well developed.

Australia has 29 native and 9 introduced species of Panicum.

Well-known species include P. miliaceum (proso millet) and P. virgatum (switchgrass).

Phylogenetic studies found the genus as previously circumscribed was polyphyletic, and several species have been reassigned to other genera. Most species in section Stolonifera of subgenus Phanopyrum were transferred to Ocellochloa, while P. venezuelae was placed in the new monotypic genus Drakkaria.