Source: http://vasat.icrisat.org/crops/pearl_millet/pm_production/html/m2_2.3/index.html

Shoot system

                                                                           Tillering in Pearl Millet

Seedling development occurs during the first two to four weeks, and rapid stalk development occurs soon after. Pearl millet often tillers producing a profuse leaf growth. There are different type of tillers:primary, basal, secondary, and nodal. Tillering may be extensive in sparse stands, particularly if good soil moisture is available.
About 6 to 8 days before flowering, the boot forms a bulge in the sheath of the flag leaf (uppermost leaf). This stage is called boot leaf stage. Pearl Millet usually flowers 40 to 55 days. Some of the photoperiod sensitive types may take longer to flower, while others may not flower at all when exposed to longer daylength of 14-16 hours.