SHATTERCANE, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. 1, upper portion of stem with particle of racemes; 2, group of spikelets. Annual, reproducing by seed. Root system fibrous. Stems erect, smooth, 4 to 8 feet (1.2 to 2.4 m) high; tillers readily produced from crown. Leaves resemble those of forage sorghum or sudan. Seeds resemble forage sorghum seed, enclosed in black to red, shiny glumes; seeds shatter very easily and remain viable in soil 2 to 3 years. Found only in cultivated fields, where it reseeds itself.