Effects of Light, Cold Storage, and Temperature on Seed Germination of Golden Thistle (Scolymus hispanicus L.)

Abstract

Golden thistle (Scolymus hispanicus L., family Asteraceae), is used as both a medicinal plant and a vegetable in the Mediterranean region. Although the plant grows in the wild, information to promote seed germination is needed for the cultivation necessary to meet demand. In this study, seed from two wild-grown and one cultivated source were used to determine the effect of light-dark, cold storage, and selected temperatures on germination of the thistle seeds. The germination of seed was significantly increased by light and cold storage. Germination was significantly higher at 20°C and 25°C than at temperatures of 15°C or 30°C. The results suggested that after-ripening and seed source play a crucial role in the germination of golden thistle.

KEYWORDS:

• asteraceae
• folk remedy
• medicinal plant

Acknowledgments

We thank The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs General Directorate of Agricultural Research of Turkey for their support of this research.