Dahanala (දහනල)

Dahanala is a long-grain red rice variety traditionally cultivated in Sri Lanka. The culm is about 120cm in height. This crop can be harvested within 3½ months from seeding. The number of tillers per plant is 4 to 5, which is low compared to other traditional rice varieties. The yield is also low at 30 to 35 bushels per acre. Dahanala is widely cultivated in the wet zone. It is susceptible to rice blast disease. However, it is resistant to the seedling pest called Trips.Traditionally Dahana rice is used in preparing porridge. Scientific studies have found evidence of medicinal properties useful for the treatment of diabetes and oxidative stress. Further, it is a rich source of protein and iron