Smooth Brome

(Bromus inermis)

Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Bromus inermis, commonly known as smooth brome, is a perennial, rhizomatous grass originally native to much of Europe and Western Asia. It has been introduced to North America, where it has become invasive in many areas, particularly in grasslands and prairies. Smooth brome typically grows 18 to 36 inches tall and forms dense sod. It initiates growth in early spring, with a flowering period from May to July, producing open, airy panicles of flowers that are not particularly showy.

Smooth brome is valued for its use in erosion control and as forage for livestock due to its dense growth habit and ability to form a sod. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils but is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions. Smooth brome requires moderate water and can spread aggressively through its rhizomes, which can be a concern in naturalized areas where it may outcompete native species. In cultivation, it is often used for pasture, hay, and soil stabilization projects. Due to its invasive nature, it is not recommended for ornamental use in areas where it can escape cultivation and disrupt local ecosystems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-4 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Originally native to much of Europe and Western Asia, invasive in North American grasslands and prairies

Other Names

Common Names: Smooth Brome, Awlless Brome, Hungarian Brome, Hungarian Brome Grass, Russian Brome

Scientific Names: , Bromus inermis, Bromopsis australis, Bromopsis inermis, Bromopsis inermis subsp. aristata, Bromopsis inermis subsp. australis, Bromopsis inermis subsp. australis, Bromopsis inermis subsp. reimannii, Bromopsis inermis var. aristata, Bromopsis inermis var. hirta

GBIF Accepted Name: