Bromus hordeaceus, commonly known as soft brome, is an annual or biennial grass that originates from Europe and western Asia. It has become widespread in North America and Australia, where it often grows in disturbed sites, grasslands, and open woodlands. Soft brome typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) and has a tufted growth habit with soft, hairy leaves. The plant produces drooping panicles of spikelets that are greenish to purplish in color, flowering from late spring to early summer. The flowers are not particularly showy, but the grass can add a soft texture to the landscape.

Soft brome is valued for its ability to quickly cover bare ground, making it useful for erosion control and as a temporary ground cover. It is also used as forage for livestock, although it is not the most nutritious option. In cultivation, soft brome prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, though it thrives in well-drained soils. It is generally low maintenance. However, it can become weedy and may self-seed prolifically, potentially becoming invasive outside its native range. Gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting. It is an invasive weed of cereal crops in its introduced ranges.CC BY-SA 4.0