Smooth Brome
Bromus racemosus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 41 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth brome is a cool-season perennial grass that forms dense clumps reaching 12-36 inches tall. It produces seed heads from May through July and thrives in full sun with moderate water needs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth 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.
- Non-native species may not align with native landscaping goals
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional landscaping preferences
- Seed heads may look messy during extended bloom period
Wildlife value
The grass provides nectar and pollen for bees and beetles during its summer blooming period. Its dense growth habit offers some shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Smooth Brome need?
- Smooth Brome grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Smooth Brome bloom?
- Smooth Brome blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Smooth Brome native?
- Smooth Brome (Bromus racemosus) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 41 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Smooth Brome attract?
- Smooth Brome draws bees and beetles.
- Is Smooth Brome HOA-friendly?
- Smooth 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 Smooth 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