Contents
Description
Bromus Squarrosus, commonly known as Serrated Brome, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and has been introduced to North America, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. This species can grow up to a height of 60-150 cm and has a dense, spreading root system that enables it to tolerate drought and nutrient-poor soils. It has a significant ecological importance as it provides cover and food for wildlife and stabilizes soil.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bromus |
Appearance
The leaves of Bromus Squarrosus are flat and have a bluish-green color. The inflorescence is a dense, spike-like panicle that can reach up to 20 cm in length. The flowers are arranged in pairs and have a distinctive zigzag pattern. The spikelets are 12-20 mm long and contain 5-10 flowers. The seeds are oval-shaped and have an average size of 4 mm. The stem is erect and has a rough texture due to the presence of stiff hairs.
Care Guide
Bromus Squarrosus is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. It prefers well-drained soils and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils. It requires moderate watering and can tolerate drought once established. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of nitrogen-based fertilizer can promote growth. This species prefers full sun exposure and can grow in hardiness zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bromus Squarrosus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases under certain conditions. It may also be affected by aphids, mites, and grasshoppers.
Habitat
Bromus Squarrosus can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It is a common species in Europe and can be found in the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. In North America, it has been introduced to the western states and can be found in open woodlands, prairies, and sagebrush steppe.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bromus Squarrosus a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Bromus Squarrosus has a dense root system that can stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Q: How often should I water Bromus Squarrosus?
A: Bromus Squarrosus requires moderate watering, but can tolerate drought once established. Watering once a week is usually sufficient.
Q: Does Bromus Squarrosus require fertilization?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of nitrogen-based fertilizer can promote growth.
Q: Can Bromus Squarrosus grow in shade?
A: Bromus Squarrosus prefers full sun exposure, but can tolerate some shade.
Related Plants
- Bromus Carinatus
- Bromus Hordeaceus
- Bromus Inermis
- Bromus Tectorum
References
- “Bromus Squarrosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 September 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a895>.
- “Bromus Squarrosus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 22 September 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BRSQ2>.
- “Serrated Brome.” Invasive Species Compendium. Accessed 22 September 2021. <https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/84681>.
