Millet (Panicum miliaceum), also known as Proso millet, is a fast growing summer crop, native to parts of central Asia but is now grown to varying extents all over the world. It is one of the hardiest grains and is therefore a staple food in regions with poor soils, or low rainfall, where other grains struggle to grow (e.g. parts of India, China and Russia). It is produced in large quantities throughout the USA, Africa, Asia, Russia and Western Europe, where it is used for both human and animal consumption (grazing, hay and birdseed). In Australia millet is grown and marketed primarily for birdseed, and as a fodder crop.