Ornamental rice 'Black madras'

50 seeds

How to Seed Ornamental Rice ‘Black Madras’ (Oryza sativa)

1. Sowing Time:
   Sow seeds indoors in spring (March–May) when temperatures are warm, or outdoors once there is no risk of frost. Warm conditions are essential for germination.

2. Seed Preparation:
   Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to speed up germination and ensure even sprouting.

3. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 1 cm deep in moist soil or seed compost. Lightly cover and keep consistently damp.

4. Soil:
   Use rich, moist soil that retains water well. Ornamental rice prefers clay or loamy soil enriched with organic matter.

5. Light & Temperature:
   Place in a warm, sunny position with temperatures between 22–28 °C (72–82 °F). Full sun is vital for healthy growth and strong leaf color.

6. Germination Time:
   Seeds will germinate in 7–14 days under warm, moist conditions.

7. Transplanting:
   When seedlings reach about 10–15 cm tall, transplant them into pots, water containers, or garden beds. Space plants 20–25 cm apart.

8. Growing Tips:

   • Keep the soil consistently wet — this plant enjoys standing water or very moist soil.

   • Ensure full sunlight for rich, dark purple foliage.

   • Ideal for decorative pots, pond edges, or wet garden areas.

   • ‘Black Madras’ produces stunning dark burgundy-purple leaves, adding dramatic contrast to garden displays.