Monodora myristica

Why are the seeds of this species difficult? The seeds may have morphological dormancy, which would have to be overcome before they will germinate.

Monodora myristica (Image: S. Wood, RBG Kew)

Seed Storage

This species has Orthodox seeds - dry to 15-20% eRH and store at -20ºC, or as cool as possible.

Germination Requirements

The seeds of this species may be Morphologically Dormant (inferred from available information on germination and of characteristics of seeds in this family). In order to overcome morphological dormancy, the seeds may need to experience several 'seasons' to allow the embryo to grow and develop, before germination will occur.

Seed Morphology

Monodora myristica
(Image: S. Wood, RBG Kew)

See more images of this species at VIRBOGA (The Virtual Botanic Garden) and at the Digital Atlas of Economic Plants.

Taxonomy

Family: ANNONACEAE

Accepted name: Monodora myristica Dunal

Synonyms: Annona myristica Gaertn., Monodora borealis Scott-Elliot, Monodora claessensii De Wild., Monodora grandiflora Benth.

Common name: calabash nutmeg, Jamaica nutmeg

References and Links

Baskin, C.C. and Baskin J.M. (1998). Seeds: ecology, biogeography, and evolution of dormancy and germination. Academic Press, USA.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (1994). Genebank Standards. FAO/IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

AFPD (African Flowering Plants Database) - Conservatoire et Jardin Botaniques de la Ville de Genève, Switzerland, and South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, RSA: Monodora myristica.
SID (Seed Information Database) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK: Monodora myristica.
Tropicos - Missouri Botanical Garden, USA: Monodora myristica.