Family: Poaceae
Compound: Set leu
Synonyms: Chaetochloa leucopila, Setaria commutata
Geographic Origin: AZ, NM, TX, much of Mainland Mexico, Argentina and Uraguay.
Characteristics: A bunch-forming grass up to about 3ft (1m) in height. Inflorescences are narrow panicles resembling a spike. Seeds are round, and short hair-like structures stick out from the stem between them.
Natural History: Grows between 3,000-7,000ft (914-2134m) on slopes, or in grasslands. Blooms summer to fall. Provides forage for grazers and shelter for small animals due to its dense growth form.
Cultivation Notes: Rarely available at local nurseries. Lightly rake seeds into soil surface in early spring and keep moist. It provides food for granivorous birds, grazers, and offers thermal shelter for small animals which makes it an excellent choice for landscaping and wildlife gardens.
For plant propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany: Unknown
Citations:
SEINet Arizona - New Mexico Chapter
https://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=Setaria+leucopil…
iNaturalist
https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/122606-Setaria-leucopila