Arctic Brome

(Bromus kalmii)

Arctic Brome (Bromus kalmii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Bromus kalmii, commonly known as Arctic Brome, is a cool-season deciduous perennial grass native to open woodlands, forest edges, and prairies across the Eastern USA and Canada. It features solitary or slightly tufted culms that can reach heights of 0.4–1.2 m (1 ft 4 in – 3 ft 11 in). Arctic Brome is characterized by its slender stems and flat, narrow leaves. The plant produces airy panicles of flowers from July to August, which are not particularly showy but add a delicate texture to the landscape. The flowers give way to seed heads that can be of interest in the fall.

Arctic Brome is valued for its adaptability to a range of soil conditions and its ability to thrive with minimal care, making it a suitable choice for naturalized areas, meadows, and restoration projects. It is often used to stabilize soil and prevent erosion. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is also tolerant of low water conditions, making it a good candidate for xeriscaping. Gardeners should note that it can self-seed and may spread in the garden if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-4 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, forest edges, and prairies across the Eastern USA and Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Kalm’s Brome, Wild Chess, Kalm Brome, Brome De Kalm, Prärielosta

Scientific Names: , Bromus kalmii, Bromus purgans, Bromopsis kalmii, Bromus steudelii, Bromus ciliatus var. purgans, Bromus hookeri var. hookeri, Bromus imperialis, Bromus malacanthus, Forasaccus purgans

GBIF Accepted Name: Bromus kalmii A.Gray