Seed germination of Crocanthemum arenicola (coastal sand frostweed)

摘要

Crocanthemum arenicola (coastal sand frostweed) is a southeastern USA native plant with ornamental and restoration potential. Propagation information for this plant is lacking. However, other species of Cistaceae have seeds with physical dormancy thatcan be alleviated by scarification. The objective of the present study was to test the effects of scarification via sandpaper abrasion with anelectric seed scarifier and photoperiod on germination of C. arenicola. Scarification for 50-200 seconds with an electric seed scarifier lined with sandpaper was sufficient to break physical dormancy with >90% germination for graded seed. Additionally, no difference in germination (63-64%) was detected between non-graded seeds exposed to a 12-hour photoperiod or left in the dark.