[2] It prefers to be along the edge of floodplains and pans where it is temporarily wet and is frequently found as a short grass among tall trees.

Guinea millet demonstrates physiological traits common in the Poaceae family in its ability to survive in harsh climates, such as heat and drought, as well as being relatively unaffected by pathogens and insects.

[5] Within the genus Urochloa, Guinea millet is easily distinguished from other species due to its inflorescence's distinct panicle shape.

Guinea millet and other small grains are as much as five-sevenfold better[clarification needed] in terms of proteins, vitamins, fiber, and other macro- and micro- compounds.

Thus, small millets are optimal to address food insecurity and its use as a substitute for larger grains (e.g. Rice and Wheat) are being studied.

[5][11] Guinea millet can degrade crop lands and thus efforts have been made to develop methods to prevent abundant grass growth.

Study indicated that Urochloa deflexa occupied over 14% of the grassy weeds among crop populations, as compared with 13% Euphorbia heterophylla and 0.8% Vernonia galamensis, demonstrating the pervasiveness of this grass.