Common Name:

General Information

Oryza meyeriana is a clump-forming, perennial grass with short rhizomes. The erect culms are up to 1 metre tall[].
Because they are a source of resistance to, or tolerance of, biotic and abiotic stresses, the most important use of the various species of wild rice is probably in breeding programmes to improve the species of cultivated rice (Oryza sativa, Oryza glaberrima). This species is also used traditionally as a contraceptive. In many parts of South Asia, wild rice grains are used as an offering to Deities in the temples and can command a high price in the market where they are sold during religious festivals[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

E. Asia - China, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines

Habitat

Dense shade in deciduous forests; bamboo thickets; rarely on grassy slopes; limestone hills and mountains; growing in damp places by streams and waterholes, sloping land, avoiding standing water; at elevations to 950 metres[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	1.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Grows wild in dense shade[]. Found in the wild on sandy, lateritic soils and organic loamy soils[].
Plants can be in flower in all months of the year and are insensitive to photoperiod[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The plant is used as a contraceptive[].

Other Uses

Because they are a source of resistance to or tolerance of biotic and abiotic stresses, the most important use of the various species of wild rice is probably in breeding programmes to improve the species of cultivated rice[].

Propagation

Seed. The seed of wild rice less than 12 months old often exhibits strong dormancy, which implies (though this has not been established) that the seed retains its viability for a considerable period[].
Heat treatment is generally effective in breaking dormancy - alternating temperatures between 34°c for 16 hours then 11°c for 8 hours is usually effective, though the time taken varies between species[].
Surface sow the seed in light shade and do not allow to dry out. Seed should germinate within 7 days at 30°c[]. Prick out 2 - 3 seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle - grow on until large enough to plant out.

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