Rice Oryza Rice is a cereal crop belonging to the species Oryza sativa (Asian rice) or Oryza glaberrima (African rice), known for its edible starchy grains that are a staple food for more than half of the world's population. Cultivated primarily in flooded fields called paddies, rice provides essential carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins, and is used in a variety of culinary dishes.