Sorghum is the world's fifth most grown cereal, but is uncommon in Sweden for other than ornamental purposes. Sorghum originated in the Niger river valley and was domesticated 7000-9000 years ago.
The seeds of sorghum are enclosed in husks that must be removed before culinary use. These husks can be brown, yellow, red or black, which often gives the plants a decorative appearance.
A special type is broomcorn, where the dried panicles are used for making brooms and brushes.