Effect of seed coat rupture on the germination of Mimosa flocculosa Burkart (Leguminosae) seeds

ABSTRACT Mimosa flocculosa Burkart is a native species used for the recovery of degraded areas. Large scale seedling production in nurseries is hindered due to seed physical dormancy. This study evaluated the germination and seed coat anatomy of M. flocculosa seeds subjected to dormancy overcome treatments. Seeds of M. flocculosa were subjected to: control with distilled water, heated water at 50, 80 and 100 °C, and H2SO4 for 1, 3 and 5 minutes. Germination tests were conducted with four replicates of 25 seeds in an entirely casualized delineation, analyzing germination percentage, mean germination time and germination speed index. Moreover, anatomical analysis of the seed coat was conducted. The treatments with heated water at 80 ºC, and sulfuric acid for 3 and 5 minutes promoted benefic anatomical alterations in the seed integument, reflecting in higher and faster in germination rates. Heated water at 80 ºC is recommended because of its efficiency and safety.