JAPANESE BROME, Bromus japonicus
Thunb. 1, part of hairy stem; 2, mature spikelet; 3,
seed, inner surface; 4, distribution. Winter annual or annual,
reproducing by seeds. Stems erect, 10 to 30 inches (25 to 75 cm)
tall. Leaves, both blades and sheaths, covered with soft hairs.
Inflorescence a panicle. Spikelets about 1/2 inch (13 mm) long,
somewhat hairy, borne on long, drooping stalks. Seeds mature May-June,
have a stiff beard 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6 to 13 mm) long, bend conspicuously
outward at maturity. Found in grain fields, meadows, wasteland.
CHEAT, Bromus secalinus L. 5, lower part
of stem; 6, panicle; 7, mature spikelet; 8, seed;
9, distribution. Winter annual or annual, reproducing
by seed. Stems erect, 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) high. Leaves,
both blades and sheaths, smooth or slightly hairy. Inflorescence
a panicle. Spikelets borne on shorter, more upright stalks than Japanese
brome. Seeds bearing a short beard (1/8 to 1/4 inch; 3 to 6 mm),
or none at all, broader and shorter than Japanese brome. Found in
grain fields, meadows, and waste places.
