Invasive Species: False Brome

Brachypodium sylvaticum

False Brome is a native of Europe, Asia, and North Africa.

It was first documented in 1939 near Eugene in Lane County.

Why is it important to control?

False brome can quickly become the dominant plant species in forest understories, demonstrating great shade and drought tolerance. It is able to grow in a variety of habitats and competes strongly for early season moisture. Its presence in commercial timberland it creates a perfect environment for rodents causing young tree damage. It can dominate oak savanna habitats and can be expected to severely restrict native oak regeneration.

How can you identify it?

False Brome - Brachypodium sylvaticumFalse Brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) Seed Head
Habitat: Shaded woodlands, open prairie, roadsides
Life Cycle: Perennial
Height: 1-1.5ft
Leaf Description: Bright green throughout growing season, turning bleached during winter. Leaf margins and lower stems are hairy with no red streaking on the stems.
Fruit & Flower Description: Flowers and seeds are spiked and droopy with no stalks
Bloom Time: June to September

How do you control it?

  • For small areas, digging out is the best method. Do this before they set fruit.

  • A non-selective herbicide may be used for larger patches from mid-summer through fall.

  • It will take repeated effort over several years to eradicate.

  • Herbicide control:  Oregon State University Extension recommends a glyphosate based herbicide. Take care to avoid drift and be cautious near crops. FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS!

  • The Oregon Department of Agriculture has no approved biocontrols.

How to report it?

There are various ways you can report this noxious weed.

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