Eleusine

Eleusine is a genus of grasses in the family Poaceae. The genus comprises several species native to tropical and subtropical regions and is best known for Eleusine coracana, the finger millet, and Eleusine indica, commonly called Indian goosegrass. Finger millet is cultivated as a cereal in parts of Africa and Asia, while E. indica is widespread as a weed in disturbed habitats and lawn margins.

Eleusine species are herbaceous grasses that are typically annual or short-lived perennials. They form tufts or low clumps with slender leaves and hollow stems. The inflorescence is a compact panicle bearing several fingerlike racemes; spikelets are small and arranged along the racemes. The plants are well adapted to warm climates, and finger millet in particular tolerates drought-prone soils. Finger millet is an allotetraploid with chromosome number 2n = 4x = 36.

Distribution and habitat: Eleusine coracana is primarily cultivated in Africa and Asia, especially in semi-arid regions where drought tolerance is advantageous. Eleusine indica has a much broader distribution in tropical and subtropical zones and commonly appears as a weed in fields, gardens, roadsides, and lawns, often thriving in disturbed or compacted soils.

Uses and significance: Finger millet seeds are small and highly nutritious, rich in minerals such as calcium and iron, and they are gluten-free. They are used to prepare porridge, flatbreads, and baked goods in various cuisines and can contribute to food security in drought-prone regions. Eleusine indica, while not typically cultivated, can reduce yields as a weed species.