Abstract:

Seed germination characteristics of Xanthoceras sorbifolia from 20 provenances were studied in Dalad Banner in this study in order to select excellent provenances that adapt to Ordos Plateau.The result showed that there were significant differences in the 100-seed weight among and within provenances of X.sorbifolia.The coefficient of variation within provenances ranged from 3.47% to 29.18%,and the coefficient of variation among provenances was 15.52%.The germination rate of seed from different provenances was above 80%.The germination potential ranged from 18.41% to 74.80%,and the coefficient of variation among provenances was 35.63%.The germination index ranged from 16.72 to 32.49,and the coefficient of variation among provenances was 18.24%.The germination speed ranged from 3.47 to 7.01 days,and the coefficient of variation among provenances was 20.74%.There were significant differences in seed germination rate,germination potential,germination index and germination speed among different provenances (P<0.001),which indicated that seed germination characteristics of different provenances of X.sorbifolia were obviously differentiated.The 20 species were divided into at least 3 groups by the clustering of the seed germination characteristics of the provenances,and five superior provenances were select preliminarily,including Bairin Left Banner (NTB),Kailu county(NTK),Hongshan District(NCH),Arhorqin Banner (NCK),and Jingbian County(SYJ).The findings provide scientific basis for the improved variety breeding and fine provenances selection of X.sorbifoli.

Key words: Xanthoceras sorbifolia, provenance, germination characteristic, Ordos Plateau