Abstract: Desiccation tolerance and storage behavior of Trachycarpus fortunei seeds were analyzed . Seeds of Trachycarpus fortunei from three localities were tested for germination following hermetic storage for 120 days at several different combinations of temperatures (4℃ and - 20℃) and moisture contents (based on dry weight ) , they showed that one of the main features is that the seeds of low water content are also easily injured by low temperatures . These results , therefore , point to the possibility of a third category of storage behavior intermediate between those of orthodox and recalcitrant seeds . The natural habitat of Trachycarpus fortunei , especially altitude , had significant effects on characteristics of seeds .

Key words: Trachycarpus fortunei