Japanese Chess, Field brome
Bromus japonicus
Family: Poaceae or Gramineae
What it is like
Bromus japonicus is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.8
Where it is found
Fields and waste places, British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec.
S. Europe - Mediterranean, to E. Asia. Introduced and naturalized in most areas of N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves. No more details. Seed. No more details are given, but the seed is very small and fiddly to utilize.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in a sunny position in most well-drained soils.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ and only just cover. Germination should take place within 2 weeks. If seed is in short supply it can be surface sown in a cold frame in early spring. When large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and plant them out in early summer.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual/Biennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Dry, moist