Rice varieties

Before the introduction of fertiliser-dependant hybrids, there were over four hundred different varieties of rice grown in the country, each with different nutrient values and characteristics. Now only a handful of rice strains are widely grown - almost all of which are hybrids. When Ulpotha was first established, rare indigenous rice seeds were carefully collected for their taste and high nutritional value from small traditional farmers all over Sri Lanka and a small seed bank established. In this way Ulpotha has, over the last several years, developed quantities of very rare, pure strains of high quality, indigeneous rice for distribution and planting in outlying organic farms under its supervision. As a result this rice is now more widely available than it has been in many generations and in quantities that allow some to be exported in limited quantities.In nutirional content, texture, appearance, aroma and - most importantly - taste, they are unlike any other rice.

Kaluheenati, which literally means dark, fine grain, is a highly nutritious red rice that is considered to have medicinal properties, and is particularly recommended for lactating mothers.

Murungakayan is a whole grain red rice that is high in nutritional value.

Kuruwee literally means 'small rice', and is a sweet and soft red rice.

Gonabaru is a very rare old variety of red rice that formed the staple diet of both peasant and king.

Dhikwee is a soft and wholesome red rice that is high in nutritional value.

Pachchaperumal is a wholesome short grain red rice that when cooked takes on a deep rich burgundy colour. Pachchuperumal means 'Buddha's colour' and has been considered a divine rice in traditional Singhalese culture. It has been used for centuries in 'Danes' (offerings to the monks during a thanksgiving or vow to the gods for rain, protection of crops etc)

Samba is a soft and delicious white rice that has been the traditional rice of choice for festivities and alms-giving.

Suwandel is a rare white rice that is, as its translated name implies, fragrant.