The influence of seed maturity and seed coat on the germination of Bupleurum chinense and B. falcatum

Objective: To investigate the factors influencing the seed germination of Bupleurum chinense and B. falcatum. Method: The seeds of different maturity, and the seeds whose coat were removed or nicked before clipping in water, were germinated in a light growth chamber. Result: The different inflorescence level represents different development period. Seeds harvested from cultivation have different maturity. The germination rate of the seeds in period I to IE was nearly zero, and it was significant different from period Ⅳ to Ⅵ. The seed coat is not an obstacle for water absorption or gas exchange, but its removal led to significant increase of seed germination rate. However, to dip the seeds without coat into water for 48h had no more effect on germination. Conclusion: The seed maturity and germination inhibitors in seed coat are two important factor influencing seed germination in B. chinense and B. falcatum .