Common Name:

General Information

Oryza ridleyi is a clump-forming, perennial grass. The erect to semi-erect culms are around 1 - 2 metres 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). 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 - Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia to New Guinea.

Habitat

Old secondary woodland, Dipterocarp forest, flooded rainforest, old rubber plantations, dense thickets, occ. in open spaces; found in marshes, riverbanks, by streams; usually in highly organic, friable soil like decaying tree trunks; to 200 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	1.50 m
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a position in moderate to deep shade[].

Edible Uses

Seed - cooked[]. Used in the same ways as ordinary rice[].

Medicinal

None known

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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