Rice (Oryza sativa)

Family: Poaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Oryza sativa or commonly known as rice is an erect grass growing about 30 - 180 cm tall, depending on the variety. It has been cultivated since ancient times and remain to be one of the most commonly cultivated food crops in the world. It is the staple food for all classes, particularly in Southeast Asia. It has two major subspecies - japonica (sticky and short-grained) and indica (non sticky and long-grained).

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet dishes. — It is usually either boiled or steamed and can be eaten in a wide variety of both savoury and sweet dishes.; It is an essential accompaniment for curries and Far Eastern dishes, it is used in European dishes such as paella and risotto, whilst it is also used in sweet dishes such as rice pudding.; The grain can also be popped like popcorn to make a breakfast cereal.; An oil is obtained from the seed.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild situation. (Zone 10)