Australian Brome: What Every Gardener Should Know About This Non-Native Grass
If you’ve stumbled across the name Australian brome (Bromus arenarius) while researching grasses for your garden, you’re probably wondering whether this annual grass deserves a spot in your landscape. While this cool-season grass has found its way into several U.S. states, it’s not your typical garden center find—and there are some good reasons why.
What Is Australian Brome?
Australian brome is exactly what its name suggests—a grass species originally from Australia that has made itself at home in parts of the United States. As an annual grass, it completes its entire life cycle in one growing season, sprouting, growing, producing seeds, and dying all within a year.
This non-native species has established populations that reproduce on their own in the wild, meaning you’re more likely to encounter it growing spontaneously in disturbed areas than in carefully planned garden beds.
Where You’ll Find Australian Brome
Australian brome has established populations in five U.S. states: Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. This scattered distribution suggests it’s adaptable to various climate conditions, from the arid Southwest to more temperate regions.
Garden Appeal and Landscape Role
Let’s be honest—Australian brome isn’t winning any beauty contests in the plant world. This grass offers modest aesthetic appeal at best and doesn’t bring the ornamental value that many gardeners seek. You won’t find it featured in stunning landscape designs or highlighted in garden magazines.
Its primary role seems to be filling in disturbed soil areas rather than serving as an intentional landscape element. Think of it as nature’s gap-filler rather than a star performer.
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re curious about its growing preferences, Australian brome is fairly adaptable:
- Thrives in cooler temperatures as a cool-season grass
- Tolerates various soil types
- Establishes readily in disturbed areas
- Requires minimal care once established
However, since it’s rarely intentionally planted, specific cultivation guidance is limited.
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
As a wind-pollinated grass, Australian brome doesn’t offer the nectar and pollen resources that attract beneficial insects to your garden. Its wildlife benefits are minimal compared to native grass alternatives.
Should You Plant Australian Brome?
Here’s the straightforward answer: you probably shouldn’t seek out Australian brome for your garden. While it’s not classified as highly invasive or noxious, there are much better options available—especially native grasses that will provide greater benefits to local ecosystems.
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of Australian brome, consider these native grass options for your region:
- For Western states: Blue grama, buffalo grass, or native fescue species
- For Eastern regions: Little bluestem, switchgrass, or native sedges
- Consult your local native plant society for the best options in your specific area
Native grasses offer superior wildlife habitat, better adaptation to local conditions, and often more attractive seasonal interest than non-native alternatives.
The Bottom Line
Australian brome falls into that category of plants that exist in our landscapes without necessarily belonging there. While it’s not causing major ecological disruption, it’s also not adding significant value to gardens or natural areas. If you encounter it growing wild, you’ll know what it is—but if you’re planning a garden, your time and energy are better invested in native alternatives that will truly thrive and support local wildlife.
Remember, every plant choice in your garden is an opportunity to create habitat and support biodiversity. Why not choose plants that have evolved alongside local wildlife and can provide the maximum benefit to your local ecosystem?
