Bromus inermis aka Hungarian Brome

Bromus inermis is a perennial grass in the Poaceae family. Its common names include smooth brome and Hungarian brome grass. Awnless brome grass is another name for this species. Its native range runs from northern Europe east to China. Records also place it across much of temperate Asia. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Plants reach about 4 feet [1.2 metres] in height.

Growth begins early in spring, with roots that grow fast. These roots form a linked network that helps hold soil. A second growth period can start in early autumn. This later growth depends on enough moisture in the soil. The plant flowers in May, and wind carries its pollen. Each flower has both male and female organs. Seeds ripen later in the year, from August to September.

Smooth brome grows best with moderate rain and cool summers. It grows in full sun but also accepts light shade. It prefers dry to moist ground and suits well-drained sites. It grows in silt, clay, deep loam, and light sand. Its soil range spans mildly acid to mildly alkaline conditions. Reported pH tolerance extends from 4.9 to 8.2. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 3–7. The source notes poor tolerance of temperature extremes. It also reports conflicting claims about tolerance of alkaline sites.

Its main listed use is to limit soil erosion. The root network makes it useful for holding ground together. This role has value in some semi-arid parts of North America. Examples include Canada's Prairie Provinces and the United States' Great Plains. It can grow in meadows and cultivated beds. Growers also sow it in mixtures with legumes. These include alfalfa, sweet clover, and red clover. It can become weedy, so that trait matters when choosing a site.

Seeds can be sown outdoors in spring in firm ground. They need a shallow covering rather than deep burial. Irrigated sites can support growth where rainfall does not suffice. The evidence reports some drought tolerance, but cool, moderately rainy conditions suit it best. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards. That does not establish that all parts are safe to eat.