Metabolomics and proteomics reveal the molecular basis of colour formation in the pericarp of Chinese wild rice (Zizania latifolia)

•We studied the molecular basis of colour change in the pericarp of Z. latifolia.•Total phenolic and total proanthocyanidin contents increased during development.•57 flavonoids showed gradual upward trends and were related to colour change.•DEPs were enriched in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis metabolic pathway.•Flavonoid synthesis may involve leucoanthocyanidin reductase and WD40 repeat protein.