Hovenia dulcis T. Fruit Colorimetry for Determination of Physiological Maturity of Seeds

Hovenia dulcis is a pioneering species, fast growing and considered exotic and invasive. The species has multiplicity of uses and reproduces by seeds. In this sense, it is extremely important to know the physiological maturity of H. dulcis seeds. The objective of the research was to determine if the maturation of H. dulcis seeds is achieved concomitantly with the physiological maturation of the false fruit. Seeds were obtained from seven adult trees located in Marechal Candido Rondon, PR. The fruits were classified in five maturation stages, determined according to color chart. In order to verify the effects of the maturation stages of the false fruit on the physiological maturity seeds biometric characteristics, moisture content, germination, vigor and seedling development were evaluated. Seeds of H. dulcis presented evolution of maturation at the same time as the false fruit. For the evaluated parameters, seeds classified as stage 1 (7.5 YR 5/8) showed the best results for seed germination and seedling development, in contrast to those classified as stage 5 (2.5 YR 3/4), which presented low germination and delay in the development of seeds and seedlings.