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 requires minimal water once established, making it 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.CC BY-SA 4.0