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Description
Bromus Racemosus, commonly known as smooth brome, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced in North America and other parts of the world as a forage and erosion control plant. The plant can grow up to 1.2 meters in height and has a shallow root system. It has a smooth stem with alternate leaves that are flat and narrow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bromus |
Appearance
The smooth brome has a dense clump-forming growth habit with slender, erect stems that are smooth and hairless. The leaves of the plant are long, narrow, and flat, measuring up to 20 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The flowers of the smooth brome are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence that can grow up to 20 cm long. The spikelets of the plant are arranged in pairs and have a characteristic drooping appearance.
Care Guide
The smooth brome is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your smooth brome:
- Water: Smooth brome requires moderate watering during its growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.
- Soil: Smooth brome grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Smooth brome is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The smooth brome is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases in humid conditions. Insect pests, such as grasshoppers and cutworms, may also feed on the plant.
Habitat
The smooth brome is a cool-season grass that grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It grows well in disturbed areas and is often used for erosion control and land reclamation. The plant is also commonly used as a forage crop for livestock.
Question and Answer
Q: Is smooth brome a good forage crop?
A: Yes, smooth brome is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for smooth brome?
A: Smooth brome is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Q: Is smooth brome susceptible to diseases?
A: Smooth brome may be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases in humid conditions.
Q: Does smooth brome require a lot of water?
A: Smooth brome requires moderate watering during its growing season.
Related Plants
- Bromus carinatus
- Bromus diandrus
- Bromus hordeaceus
- Bromus inermis
- Bromus japonicus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Bromus racemosus L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BRRA
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Bromus racemosus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a968
- CABI. (2021). Bromus racemosus (smooth brome). Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/9376
