Chinese Water Chestnut

Eleocharis dulcis, commonly known as the Chinese water chestnut, is an aquatic sedge that produces edible corms. It is native to tropical and subtropical Asia, as well as parts of Oceania and tropical Africa. Characterized by its hollow, tubular green stems that resemble rushes, this plant thrives in flooded conditions such as marshes, ponds, and especially flooded paddy fields. The corms are crisp, sweet, and widely utilized in Asian cuisine. Cultivating this plant requires standing water during the growing season followed by draining before harvest.