Sorghum 'Piper' (Sorghum bicolor), 2g

Common Sorghum ‘Piper’ (Sorghum bicolor) – a cereal crop native to Africa. The ‘Piper’ variety is mainly used as forage, but it is also widely grown as an ornamental grass. In warm climates, sorghum can be grown as a perennial, while in cooler regions it is treated as an annual. Height 150-200cm.

Sow seeds indoors or directly outdoors in spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least +15 °C (usually May to early June in Latvia). Sow in a sunny location with well-drained, warm soil, 2–5 cm deep, leaving 10–15 cm between plants. Sorghum tolerates drought but benefits from moderate watering and nutrients.

Grains can be harvested around mid-September, or the plants can be left for decorative purposes throughout winter. Small birds may also feed on the grains.