1. California (Seaside) Brome – Bromus carinatus/maritimus
(BROME-us kar-IN-uh-tus or mar-ih-TEE-mus)
Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
Native to: Western N. America; local var. on dunes and meadows/prairies near coast.
Growth characteristics: cool-season perennial grass
mature height: 1-4 ft. mature width: 1-3 ft.
Cool-season perennial bunchgrass. Relatively short-lived 3-5 years. Deep, wide-spreading roots.
Cultivars suitable for S. Bay include: „Cucamonga‟, „Deborah‟ .
Blooms/fruits: blooms in spring; small green grass flowers on stems (not showy). Seeds with long,
showy bristles.
Seeds are edible.
Uses in the garden: native lawns, meadows and prairies. Native wildflower gardens. Site
reclamation. Particularly good as a “nurse plant” for slower-growing grasses, perennials. Gives quick
cover that is very competitive with non-native grasses and weeds.
Sensible substitute for: non-native Bromes (Red, Smooth, Spanish Bromes; Chilean Chess)
Attracts: many beneficial insects. Seed-eating birds and small mammals eat seeds.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to light shade
Any; best in medium-textured but can stand poorly-drained soils; any pH, including
alkali
Tolerates range from regular garden watering to no summer water
None/light
manage like any perennial grass. May be mowed (set mower at highest height) or left
natural. Is susceptible to fungal diseases under damp conditions.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: fall-spring in well-prepared bed. Rake to cover. Germinates well in warm
spring weather.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 5, 10, 16
7/9/07
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