Species of grass native to northern Africa, but cultivated widely for its edible grain. Sorghum has been cultivated since ancient times for its grain (couscous), as a source of syrup (molasses). It is also made into alcoholic beverages, as well as for biofuels. The tall, stiff, pithy stems are used for brooms, baskets, and construction. A reddish purple dye, guineense, is extracted from the leaves and stems, used for dyeing Niger goatskins.
