In this paper, a full-length cDNA of a DREB-like gene was cloned firstly from Roegneria ciliaris through RT-PCR and RACE technologies, and named as RcDREB1. RcDREB1 contains a conserved AP2 domain, suggesting that this gene is a new transcription factor member in the AP2 superfamily. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that RcDREB1 shares a high similarity with the DREB-like genes in Triticum aestivum. Through yeast one-hybrid experiment, RcDREB1 was verified to possess an ability to specifically bind the drought-responsive DRE element; Using Real-time quantitative PCR, we found that all of the stresses of high salt, drought, heavy metal (CdCl2) and low temperature could up-regulate RcDREB1 expression, but only high salt showed more strong induction of RcDREB1. These results suggested that RcDREB1 is a novel DREB type transcription factor gene and may play important roles in mediating the transduction of distinct signaling cues initiated by those of adverse environmental factors. This DREB-like gene could be useful in elucidating the evolution pathway of Triticeae and in the application in transgenic wheat breeding.