Seed Scarification to Speed Germination of Ornamental Cycads (Zamia spp.)1

Abstract Rate and percent germination of Zamia integrifolia Ait. and Z. furfuracea L.f. can be significantly improved by seed scarification. Reported germination times of up to a year or more can be reduced to 1 to 3 months under greenhouse conditions if the outer fleshy seed coat is removed and the inner stony layer scarified. Rate and percent germination vary with placement of scarification cut and species. Germination of 80 to 100% in 1 week were obtained for Z. integrifolia under laboratory conditions.