Seed germination characteristics of Maianthemum dilatatum (Wood) Nels. et Macbr. (Asparagaceae)

Abstract

AbstractThe seed germination characteristics of Maianthemum dilatatum were investigated in a laboratory experiment and the results compared with those of other species in the subfamily Asparagoideae, LILIACEAE (Engler's system). M. dilatatum seeds mature in late September to October in montane to subalpine areas across Japan. Germination percentages and rates were low for fresh seeds at 10 to 30°C. Seeds cold stratified for 4 months or longer showed increased germination percentages and rates. The seeds lost germinability with decreasing moisture content. The seeds germinated well in dark conditions. The process of germination from the cotyledonary sheath/petiole breaking through the seed coat to the appearance of the first and second leaves was examined. After emergence of the cotyledonary sheath/petiole, a root emerged from it, and additional roots appeared after 1–2 months. The plumule emerged from the cotyledonary sheath/petiole after the seedling had three roots. Seeds dispersed in autumn, and germinate slowly in the next spring after exposure to low temperature even though dark condition as buried seed. We compared the seed germination characteristics among species in the Asparagoideae or with other recent taxonomy, and found that seedlings of Paris verticillate and Trillium apetalon, which belong to Melanthiaceae, and Streptopus streptopoides Var. japonica and Clintonia udensis, which belong to Liliaceae (linear cotyledon), were different from Asparagaceae, showing a globose cotyledon in the APG II.