SafePlants

Rye Brome (Bromus secalinus)

Rye brome, scientifically known as Bromus secalinus, is a species of bromegrass recognized as an arable weed in various parts of the world.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bromus secalinus
• Common Names: Rye brome, Cheat, Chess, Chess brome, Ryebrome
• Family: Poaceae (also known as Gramineae)
• Genus: Bromus L.
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: The text mentions several common names that are also used as synonyms.
• Alternative Scientific Names: Bromus secalinus var. genuinus

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Eurasia.
• Widely distributed and well-known in many other parts of the world.
• Mainly recorded at scattered locations in the southern half of England (14%).
• Largely confined to arable fields and field margins.
• Found in Europe, Australia, parts of South America, and widespread in North America.

Ecological Role

• Considered a weed in arable fields, particularly in the UK.
• Can be an aggressive plant, preferring sunny habitats.
• Evolved in cultivation or spread in prehistory as a weed, possibly mimicking rye.
• Can reduce rye biomass and seed yield when present in high densities in winter rye crops.

Morphological Characteristics

• Annual grass.
• Stems are 60-120 cm in height.
• Tufted grass, erect with spirally twisted leaves.
• Grows from 45-100 cm (17.7-39.4 in) tall.
• Erect lax panicle with many spikelets.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Can be mistaken for meadow brome due to similar appearance.
• Mentioned in the context of growing in a cornfield.

Further Information

• Information available from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society).
• Montana Field Guide may include photos of the species.
• Collins English Dictionary provides definitions and information.