Bromus sterilis, commonly known as barren brome or sterile brome, is an annual or biennial grass native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and disturbed sites across Europe, Africa, and temperate Asia. It typically grows to a height of 8-35 inches (20-90 cm) and features rough, hairy leaves. The plant forms loose, nodding panicles with spikelets that are up to 2 inches long, each containing 4-10 flowers that may appear from late spring to early summer. The flowers are not particularly showy, but the grass can add a delicate texture to the landscape.

Barren brome is often found in cultivation as part of wildflower meadows or naturalistic plantings where its ability to self-seed can be beneficial for maintaining a dynamic planting design. It is also used for erosion control due to its fibrous root system. This grass prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, from well-drained to moderately fertile. It is a low-maintenance option for gardeners. However, it can become weedy and potentially invasive outside its native range, so caution is advised when planting in areas where it is not native. It has been found to become invasive in California and is a noxious weed on both U.S. coasts.CC BY-SA 4.0