SafePlants

Poverty Brome (Bromus sterilis)

Bromus sterilis, commonly known as poverty brome, barren brome, or sterile brome, is an annual or biennial species of bromegrass. Its scientific name reflects one of its common names, as "sterilis" is Latin for sterile.

Considerations for Pets

• As a grass, it may be tempting for pets to ingest, potentially causing digestive upset.
• The plant produces seeds; seed awns can pose a risk to animals, particularly if they become lodged in the skin, ears, or eyes.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bromus sterilis L.
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Synonyms: Anisantha sterilis

Distribution and Habitat

• Poverty brome is native to Eurasia.
• It has been introduced worldwide, including in North Africa, Australia, South America, North America, and New Zealand.
• In the United States, it has been reported as invasive in states such as MD, MO, OR, and WA.
• It's found in disturbed areas, sandy soils, waste places, and can form extensive stands.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Columbia River Gorge in Washington and Saturna Island.

Ecological Role

• Bromus sterilis is considered an invasive species.
• It is a weed that grows well in disturbed ground.

Morphological Characteristics

• Poverty brome can grow up to 50 cm (approximately 1.5 ft) in height.
• It flowers from May to June in Central Europe.
• It has drooping, branched structures.

Additional Information

• The plant has shown resistance to ACCase inhibitors.