Hairy Woodland Brome
Bromus pubescens
Last reviewed: July 2026
Bromus pubescens (Hairy Woodland Brome) is a native Arkansas grass that thrives in partially shaded woodland areas. This medium-moisture tolerant species blooms from May through July.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hairy woodland brome is a native perennial grass that forms loose clumps in partially shaded areas. It produces delicate seed heads from late spring through summer and prefers woodland edges or naturalized areas with consistent moisture.
Growing Hairy Woodland Brome
Grow Hairy Woodland Brome in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hairy Woodland Brome 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.
- Looks wild and weedy rather than ornamental
- Seed heads can appear unkempt
- Not recognizable as intentional landscaping to most homeowners
Wildlife value
This native grass provides seeds for birds and nesting material for small wildlife. The foliage offers cover for ground-dwelling creatures in woodland garden settings.
Common questions
- What growing conditions does Hairy Woodland Brome prefer?
- Hairy Woodland Brome grows best in partially shaded areas with medium moisture levels, making it well-suited for woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
- When does Bromus pubescens bloom?
- Hairy Woodland Brome produces flowers from May through July, with grass-like seed heads typical of brome grasses.
- Where is Hairy Woodland Brome native?
- Bromus pubescens is documented as native to Arkansas and other southeastern woodland regions where it grows naturally in forest understories.
- Is Hairy Woodland Brome HOA-friendly?
- Hairy Woodland Brome takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Hairy Woodland Brome? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz