Jungle rice (Echinochloa colonum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Jungle rice on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Jungle rice
Echinochloa colonum, commonly known as jungle rice, is an annual grass belonging to the Poaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions. It features erect or decumbent stems, growing up to 60 cm tall, and flat, smooth leaves. While often considered a weed in cultivated fields, in a wild or naturalized landscaping context, it can provide interesting texture and habitat for wildlife.
Native range
Tropical Africa and Asia
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun and moist to wet soils, even tolerating temporary waterlogging. It is not particular about soil type, growing well in a wide range, from clayey to sandy. The main mistake to avoid is allowing it to dry out completely, as its growth will be negatively impacted. It propagates easily by seed, so control may be necessary in certain environments.
How to save a dying Jungle rice
- Warning signs
- Rolled or wilted leaves, yellowing or reddish discoloration.
- First aid
- Deep watering if soil is dry. If potted, consider repotting to a better-draining spot.
- What kills it
- Extreme over or under-watering, or very compacted soils preventing root development.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted or dried out. Act quickly with watering and soil.