Sorghum is one of the oldest cereal crops in the world, widely cultivated in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions globally. It is grown almost throughout China, with major production areas in Northeast, North, Northwest, and the Yellow River and Huai River basins. Do you know the common names for sorghum? Let's find out below.
What is the common name for sorghum?
Sorghum, also known by various names such as shushu, diliang, wuhe, hongliang, hongbangzi, muji, minghe, jiaozi, lusu, taosu, shushu, fanshu, taoshu, luza, jiaocao, etc., is one of China's traditional five grain crops .
Characteristics of sorghum
1. Appearance
The sorghum stalks are erect and relatively thick, reaching 3-5 meters in height, with supporting roots at the basal nodes. The sheaths are hairless or slightly covered with a white powder, and the ligules have marginal hairs. The panicles are loose, with separate styles, and the caryopsis is flat-convex on both sides, ranging in color from pale red to reddish-brown.
2. Strong drought resistance
Sorghum is a dryland food crop with certain heat resistance characteristics. It requires a higher temperature than corn during its growth period, with the suitable temperature for the entire growth period being 20-30℃.
3. Low soil requirements
Sorghum is not demanding in terms of soil and can be planted in sandy soil, clay soil, dry slopes, and low-lying areas. It is especially resistant to saline-alkali soil.
4. Wide adaptability
Sorghum is suitable for planting in both northern and southern my country. It is relatively easy to cultivate and is particularly well-suited for crop rotation. North my country is particularly suitable for sorghum cultivation and has historically grown it on a large scale, earning it the title of "lifesaving grain."
5. Wide range of applications
Sorghum is one of the five grains, an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the genus Sorghum of the Poaceae family. After hulling, sorghum yields sorghum rice, which was once a staple food in ancient times. Besides being eaten as a grain, sorghum is also processed into various snacks and delicacies. In addition, sorghum has another important use: it is a raw material for brewing wine, and sorghum liquor is made primarily from sorghum.
