Spanish Brome
Bromus madritensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spanish brome is a short annual grass that grows in clumps and produces seed heads in spring. This non-native species is considered an invasive weed that can quickly spread and outcompete desirable plants.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spanish Brome takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Invasive weed species
- Dies back creating unsightly brown patches
- Can spread aggressively to neighboring properties
Wildlife value
Provides minimal wildlife value and can actually harm native ecosystems by displacing beneficial native plants that support local wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Spanish Brome need?
- Spanish Brome grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Spanish Brome bloom?
- Spanish Brome blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Spanish Brome native?
- Spanish Brome (Bromus madritensis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Spanish Brome HOA-friendly?
- Spanish 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 Spanish 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