Zizania aquatica, commonly known as wild rice, is an aquatic grass native to North America. It typically grows in shallow waters of lakes, rivers, and wetlands, reaching heights of up to 10 feet. The plant produces long, slender stems and distinctive flower spikes that can be green or purple. Wild rice is an important food source for various wildlife, including birds and mammals. It is also harvested by Indigenous peoples, who have cultivated it for centuries. The grains are nutritious and can be cooked in various dishes, making Zizania aquatica a valuable crop both ecologically and culturally.