Seed dormancy and germination in Melicytus ramiflorus (Violaceae)

Abstract

The effects were studied of scarification (concentrated sulphuric acid for UP to 5 min), hching (for up to 2 h), stratification, and storage environment on germination of seed of the New Zealand endemic tree Melicytus ramflorus. Seeds that were incubated immediately after extraction from mature fruits germinated readi1y (87%), and leaching did not further enhance germination. Acid scarification only reduced germination percentage while increasing germination rate. Air-dried seed also germinated we11 (>80%) Once transferred to a moist incubation environment. Germination occurred in seed stratified in the light but not in darkness. The possible significance of harvest date on the presence of germination inhibitors is discussed. © 2001 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.