Temperature, light and substrate for germination of seeds of brazilwood (Caesalpinia echinata Lam., Leguminosae - Caesalpinioideae)

Abstract

Preservation of the Brazilian endangered tree Caesalpinia echinata Lam. include the ex situ conservation that could be enhanced by the long term storage of its seeds. In despite of having enough technology to preserve brazilwood seed viability for at least two years, there is scarce information on the optimal conditions for germination, mainly concerning temperature, light and substrate. This research aimed to study the effects of the constant temperatures (10 to 45°C), the presence or absence of light and the moisture content of three substrates (paper, sand and vermiculite) on the germination of C. echinata seeds. The results suggested that these seeds should be sowed on paper roll moistened at the ratio 1:2.5 or 1:3.0 (substrate:water, w/w) at 25°C, no need for light.