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Description
Bromus inermis, also known as smooth brome or Russian brome, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America as a forage and erosion control plant. This grass species can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has an extensive root system that makes it ideal for erosion control. It has a long growing season and can tolerate drought and cold temperatures, making it a popular choice for farmers and landscapers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bromus |
Appearance
Smooth brome grass has narrow, flat leaves that are blue-green in color. Its stem is erect and smooth, with a few branches near the top. The inflorescence is a panicle that can reach up to 20 cm long and has many small spikelets. The spikelets contain several florets that are surrounded by awns. The seeds are small and brown.
Care Guide
Smooth brome grass is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight but can tolerate some shade. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a wide range of temperatures. Water: Smooth brome grass requires moderate watering, especially during the first year of growth. After that, it can survive on rainfall alone.Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for smooth brome grass, but it can benefit from a moderate amount of nitrogen fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Smooth brome grass prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.Sunlight: Smooth brome grass prefers full sunlight but can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: Smooth brome grass can grow in hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Smooth brome grass is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, leaf spot, and stem blight. These diseases can be controlled by ensuring proper soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Smooth brome grass is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America as a forage and erosion control plant. It can grow in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands. It is often used in agricultural settings as a forage crop for livestock.
Question and Answer
Q: Is smooth brome grass invasive?
A: Smooth brome grass is not considered invasive but can form dense stands that can outcompete native vegetation.
Q: Can smooth brome grass be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, smooth brome grass is often used for erosion control due to its extensive root system.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for smooth brome grass?
A: Smooth brome grass prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: Can smooth brome grass survive in drought conditions?
A: Yes, smooth brome grass is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to smooth brome grass:
- Bromus carinatus
- Bromus diandrus
- Bromus hordeaceus
- Bromus tectorum
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BRIN2
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/graminoid/broine/all.html
- https://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4141/cjps2013-239
