Bromus inermis Seeds | Smooth Brome
LATIN NAME: Bromus inermis
COMMON NAME: Smooth Brome
Plant Profile
Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis) is a rhizomatous perennial grass of the family Poaceae, native to Europe and Asia and widely planted in North America. It grows 60-120 cm tall, with smooth, broad blades and open, nodding panicles of spikelets in summer. One of the most important sown forage grasses of the northern prairies, it is also a persistent invader of native grasslands.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Bromus group, Bromus inermis is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. This research has led some prairie restoration projects to actively manage or remove established smooth brome stands rather than treating it as a neutral or beneficial presence. Little about its garden performance is mysterious; it has been grown and observed for a very long time.
Uses & Benefits
Smooth Brome brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Smooth brome remains a productive and widely used hay and pasture grass across much of North America and Eurasia, valued for reliable yield and genuine effectiveness at stabilising disturbed or eroding ground. Given its documented tendency to outcompete native prairie species, however, it is worth using thoughtfully in restoration contexts specifically aiming to recreate authentic native grassland rather than simply establishing quick ground cover. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
Like the best garden herbs, it rewards growers twice: once in the garden with scent and pollinators, and again in the home as a traditional household herb.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Smooth Brome, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow seed into a loose, well-drained mix at a shallow depth, keeping it consistently moist until germination. Full sun suits this vigorous grass well, and it establishes readily and spreads efficiently by rhizome, quickly forming a dense, uniform sod under most ordinary growing conditions. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in full sun until the seedlings are well up. Move strong seedlings into individual pots, keep them in good light, and set them out when the weather and their size agree.
Our Take
Among the Bromus group, it is one of the more distinctive species in cultivation. Start with fresh seed, keep it evenly moist, and the plant does the rest itself.
Related Reading
If Smooth Brome appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: