SafePlants

Fringed Brome (Bromus ciliatus)

Bromus ciliatus, commonly known as fringed brome, is a species of brome grass native to North America.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is a grass and can be found in a variety of habitats.
• The seeds of fringed brome are eaten by wildlife.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is a grass and can be found in a variety of habitats.
• The seeds of fringed brome are eaten by wildlife.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bromus ciliatus L.
• Common Name: Fringed brome
• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
• Genus: Bromus
• Species: ciliatus
• Synonyms: Bromus dudleyi, Bromus ciliatus var. ciliatus, Bromus ciliatus var. richardsonii

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to most of North America, including most of Canada.
• Found in native stands throughout a large area of North America.
• Adapted to wet prairies and coniferous forests.
• Adapted to moist sites that can be seasonally dry and tolerant of poorly drained soils.

Morphology and Growth Habit

• A coarse, loosely tufted perennial.
• Grows between 0.5-1.0 meters tall (2-4 feet).
• Non-rhizomatous, erect growth habit.
• Cool-season, clump-forming grass.
• Stems are stout and leafy, usually rising in groups.
• Drooping florets with an oat-like appearance.

Ecological Role

• Important forage plant for cattle in the West.
• Effective for erosion control.
• Valued in revegetation mixes.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Montana Field Guide