Germination of Passiflora mollissima (Kunth) L.H.Bailey, Passiflora tricuspis Mast. and Passiflora nov sp. seeds

Passiflora mollissima, Passiflora tricuspis and Passiflora nov sp. are three passion fruit species occurring in Bolivia. Germination percentages and rates were determined for 11 different treatments. Per species, germination of 100 seeds was monitored every 3 days, during 90 days. Germination started after 9 days and 50% of final germination was reached within a month or less. Successful, recommended methods for P. mollissima are removing the basal point of seeds (27% germination) or removing the basal point in combination with pre-soaking seeds for 48 h in 50 ppm GA₃ (18%). Pre-soaking seeds for 24 h in 400 ppm GA₃ (42%) and removal of the basal point in combination with pre-soaking seeds for 48 h in 50 ppm GA₃ (36%) are suggested methods to improve germination of P. nov sp. Removing the apical point of P. tricuspis seeds resulted in maximal germination (57%). No unique treatment gave satisfactory results for the three species tested. Exogenous dormancy, probably a combination of mechanical and chemical dormancy is present in the three species studied. Presence of physical dormancy was found in P. mollissima.