Sand Rice
Agriophyllum squarrosumfam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 04CD — Agriophyllum squarrosum
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IOverview
Overview
Sand Rice (Agriophyllum squarrosum) belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to regions such as East European Russia, Irkutsk, Kazakhstan, Krasnoyarsk, South European Russia, and West Siberia. This annual plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). Growing up to 0.4 meters tall, Sand Rice is known for its edible seeds, which are often harvested for food. Additionally, it has documented medicinal uses, making it a valuable plant both in culinary and traditional medicine contexts. Its adaptability to various soil types and light conditions makes it a versatile species in botanical gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Sand Rice?
Sand Rice (Agriophyllum squarrosum) belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to regions such as East European Russia, Irkutsk, Kazakhstan, Krasnoyarsk, South European Russia, and West Siberia.
What is Sand Rice used for?
Traditionally used for immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Sand Rice
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- In traditional Russian medicine, Sand Rice is used to support the immune system. It may be prepared as a tea or decoction for this purpose.
The specific compounds responsible for immune support in Sand Rice are not well-documented, but it likely contains bioactive substances that interact with the body's immune response pathways.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Historic blend for digestive support.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sand Rice thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows up to 0.4 meters tall and is native to regions like East European Russia, Irkutsk, Kazakhstan, Krasnoyarsk, South European Russia, and West Siberia. It's hardy in temperate regions but needs consistent moisture for optimal growth. Propagate Sand Rice through its seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.4 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sand Rice for the first time
8steps
Start with Sand Rice as an easy-to-grow annual for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small trowel or scoop, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining, either light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep and 15-20 cm apart in rows. Alternatively, start indoors a few weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist during germination. Water regularly to maintain moisture but avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially in hot weather. Fertilize lightly with compost once a month.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any leggy growth to encourage bushiness and remove dead leaves for better air circulation.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without improving drainage, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Sand Rice are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often prepared in similar ways to rice, providing a light, nutritious addition to meals.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 6 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Russia
Asia1 region
native (1)Kazakhstan
Broader regions
native:Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk
VIIIGarden companions
1 pair
Garden companions
1 pairPlant near these
These plants help — by repelling pests, fixing nitrogen, attracting pollinators, or sharing space well.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
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