SafePlants

Meadow Brome Grass: An Overview

This page provides information on various species of Brome grass, with a particular focus on Meadow Brome.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Bromus biebersteinii, Bromus commutatus, Bromus hordeaceus ssp hordeaceus, Bromus riparius (also called B. erectus), Bromus secalinus
• Common Names: Meadow Brome, Meadow Bromegrass, Rye Brome, Soft Brome

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
• Plant Symbol: BRBI2

Distribution and Habitat

• Meadow Brome is native to southwestern Asia and Europe.
• It has been widely introduced in North America.
• In the UK, it's commonly found in grassland situations, especially old pastures, with a higher prevalence in the southern half of England.
• It is found on damper, heavier soils.
• Bromus commutatus can be found on waysides, road verges, and the borders of fields and tracks, especially in unimproved damp meadows.

Ecological Role

• In some states of North America, Meadow Brome is considered a noxious weed.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Meadow Brome (Bromus commutatus) is an annual or biannual grass.
• It typically grows to a height of 40-120 cm.
• It has a loosely tufted growth habit.
• It spreads by short rhizomes.
• The panicle is generally erect.
• It is a long-lived perennial bunchgrass, with stands that can last up to 20 years.
• Similar to Soft Brome but taller (30 to 90 cm).
• The panicle is also looser, 7 to 20 cm long, with a more spreading and drooping habit, and with many long (to 7 cm).

Usage and Qualities

• Meadow bromegrass is an ideal pasture grass due to its high yields, rapid regrowth, and excellent season-long forage quality.
• It is a cool-season grass.
• It is a competitive crop.
• It's an excellent companion grass with alfalfa.
• It regrows very quickly after grazing, even late in the season.
• Meadow Brome is one of the most versatile grasses available.
• Sod forming and with strong seedlings.