Plant Diversity ›› 2011, Vol. 33 ›› Issue (2): 229-234.DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1143.2011.10154

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Study on the Characteristics of Seed Dormancy and Germination of Rauvolfia yunnanensis (Apocynaceae)

 WANG  Fu-Yun, CA  Chuan-Chao, WEN  Bin   

  1. Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Science, Mengla 666303, China
  • Received:2010-09-09 Online:2011-04-25 Published:2011-02-15

Abstract:

 Rauvolfia yunnanensis (Apocynaceae) is known for its medical properties. Its large-scale cultivation is limited due to the limited availability of seedlings. This study investigated the factors that cause seed dormancy by testing the effects of exogenous gibberellin, temperature and illumination upon the germination of R.yunnanensis seeds. The results indicate that fresh mature seeds of R.yunnanensis did not germinate at either 28℃ or 31℃/22℃ (alternating temperature), whether in light or darkness. The seed coat was water-permeable, but endogenous germination inhibitors were found in the seed kernel. Gibberellic acid (GA) improved germination of R.yunnanensis seeds, indicating that R.yunnanensis seeds have non-deep physiological dormancy. Dormancy breaking of R.yunnanensis seeds can be achieved by applying GA at a concentration of 400-1800mg·L-1. The suitable temperature range for germination was 22℃-28℃ and 31℃/22℃, while the highest germination success was obtained at 28℃. R.yunnanensis seeds germinated both under continuous dark conditions and alternating light/dark conditions, however, at 31℃ and 31℃/22℃, alternating light/dark conditions improved germination.

Key words: Rauvolfia yunnanensis, Seed dormancy, GA, Temperature, Illumination

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