Invasive Plant Alert; False-brome

From a distance, alien grasses will appear similar to native grasses on the Washington landscape. To identify which is which, even the seasoned weed warrior needs to move in closely and observe its special features. If you think you have False brome, (Brachyposium sylvaticum), on your property, read further to learn how to positively identify this very invasive grass species.

At a distance, False brome appears as a bright-green clump of floppy leaves with seed spikes that droop noticeably. Both plant parts persist into the fall and early winter. Distinctly hairy leaf margins that are visible to the naked eye will ensure the False Brome’s identification.

Invasiveness of the False brome comes from its ability to grow well in shade, sun, and even high elevation. It disperses seed along roadsides and quietly moves into forest and shaded field-edge environments. Uncontrolled, it rapidly becomes the dominant plant, crowding out native and endangered species. Removal of False brome is best done before seed pods develop between June and October.

Refer to https://www.nwcb.wa.gov/weeds/false-brome or call the Lewis County Noxious Weed Control Board at 360-740-1215 for more information and to learn how to identify and manage False brome.