Masuran is a popular medium-grain red rice variety traditionally cultivated in Sri Lanka. The plant develops to a maximum height of 120cm and is resistant to lodging. This crop can be harvested within 3½ months from seeding during the Yala season and within 4½ months in the Maha season.The potential yield is about 80 bushels per acre. This plant is resistant to the rice blast disease and plays an important role in weed control as its leaves tend to turn downwards during maturity. Masuran is widely cultivated in the wet zone.Scientific studies have found evidence of medicinal properties useful for the treatment of inflammation, diabetes, cancer, neurological diseases, cholesterol and oxidative stress. Consumption with the bran is important in obtaining such valuable nutritional and medicinal properties.
Family: Poaceae
Species: Oryza sativa L.
Sub Species: indica