Viability and germination of seeds of Carmichaelia (Fabaceae) after prolonged storage

Abstract

Eleven species of Curmichuelia retained high seed viability for up to 24 years, linked with sustained impermeability of the seed testa. Viable seeds germinated rapidly after scarification and showed no specific light requirements. Shrub and dwarf shrub species retain high viability after prolonged storage, whereas seeds of tree species had reduced viability in older seeds. Long‐term seed storage would be a suitable ex situ conservation tool for shrub and dwarf shrub species.

Keywords:

• Fabaceae
• Carmichaelia
• seed
• storage
• dormancy
• viability
• germination
• ex situ conservation
• New Zealand flora