Studies On the Germination and Seedling Characteristics of The Savanna Palm Trees
Authors
Tahir S. M.
Department of Biological Sciences, Kaduna State University
Mua'zu S.
Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Khan A. U.
Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Iortsuun D. N.
Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Abstract
Mode of germination and seedling characteristics of four Savanna palm trees; Borassus aethiopum, Hyphaene thebaica, Phoenix reclinata and Raphia sudanica were studied. In the course of their germination, the radicle was found to be cotyledonary in nature, and it carried the undeveloped plumule below ground before its further development. This is called cryptogeal germination which occurred in two stages: (i) preparatory germination and (ii) germination proper. Bigger seedlings were produced by larger seeds. Pinnate and palmate leaf arrangements with parallel venation were also found among these palms.
