Cheat
Bromus secalinus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 43 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cheat is an annual grass that grows in upright clumps reaching up to 3 feet tall. This weedy species produces drooping seed heads during summer months and tends to colonize disturbed soils. It's considered an agricultural pest and invasive weed rather than a desirable landscaping plant.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cheat takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Considered a weedy agricultural pest
- Informal appearance inappropriate for maintained landscapes
- Annual growth creates gaps and bare spots
Wildlife value
Provides minimal wildlife value as seeds may feed some birds and small mammals. Offers little to no pollinator support since grasses are wind-pollinated.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Cheat fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.