Origin, Diversity, Floral Biology, Pollination, and Genetics in Foxtail Millet

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv.; 2n = 2x = 18; Poaceae) is the second oldest cultivated species of millet. It is thought to be derived from the progenitor, Setaria viridis (L.) P. Beauv. upon cultivation and domesticated around 7400 years ago in northern China while some archeological remains were also recovered from Europe and the Middle East. Foxtail millet is a C4 crop that has the ability to survive in harsh agroecological conditions with immense nutraceutical properties. The characteristic features of this millet include the presence of the smallest genome among the Panicoid grasses, a smaller number of the repetitive genome, a short generation cycle, and is self-incompatible making it a wonder millet. Therefore, this crop is considered to be an excellent experimental model for studying architectural traits, evolutionary history, and other physiological characteristic features. The floral biology of this millet is interesting as there are many ecotypes found depending on the variation in the number of inflorescences, color, height, and other attributes. The chapter will briefly discuss the origin, genetic diversity, distribution, taxonomy, and botany of foxtail millet. It will also provide a scope for exploring opportunities for employing in crop improvement and breeding programs.