SafePlants

Brachypodium sylvaticum: An Overview

Brachypodium sylvaticum, commonly known as false-brome, slender false brome, or wood false brome, is a perennial grass that has garnered attention due to its invasive nature in certain regions.

Considerations for Pets

• This grass has hairy stems and broad leaves, which can be up to 12 mm wide.

Considerations for Children

• This grass has hairy stems and broad leaves, which can be up to 12 mm wide.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Brachypodium sylvaticum (Huds.) P. Beauv.
• Common Names: False brome, slender false brome, wood false brome, wood brome, perennial false brome
• Family: Poaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
• In the USA, it is currently found in Oregon, Washington, and California.
• Prefers well-drained neutral to calcareous soils.
• Typically grows in shaded woodlands and open prairies.

Ecological Role

• Class A weed in some regions, indicating its limited presence but potential for significant impact.
• Considered a highly invasive bunchgrass in certain areas.
• Can displace native understory plants and hinder the growth of young trees.
• May increase fuel for wildfire.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial grass forming tufts up to 60 cm in height.
• Hairy stems.
• Flat, broad (up to 12 mm wide), yellow-green leaves that are drooping and softly hairy.
• Inflorescences are 6 to 15 cm long with unbranched nodding flower-spikes.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Larval food plant for the Essex Skipper butterfly.
• May interact with mycorrhizal symbiosis, affecting its growth depending on environmental light conditions.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS database.
• False Brome Working Group.
• Institute for Applied Ecology.
• Oregon Invasives Hotline.