Abstract: The chemical components of herbs of the Zizania L. and its related 5 genera, 7 species in total, were reportel in this paper the first time.The 22 macro and trace elements in the herbs were detected by DC(direct current) argon plasma flame emission spectrograph;the crudeprotein and the total nitrogen were examined by potassium dichromate-sulfuric acid digestion;the ash of the herbs was determined by the dryashing method;the crude fiber of the herbs was determined by the acid-detergent methord。The authors consider the 4 species of the Zizania L.as independently exsisting in nature. The Zizania L. is of high economicvalue, especially the Z. latifolia which has the highest value in this genusfor its comprehensive utilization and is worthy of extensive planting.

Key words: Zizania L., Chemical components, Systematic evolution