Seed Characteristics and Seedling Emergence of Dalmatian Toadflax

Abstract

In eastern Washington Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria dalmatica(L.) Mill) produces seeds for about 3 months, beginning in early July, with over 95% produced during the first 5 weeks. A large plant will produce a half million seeds under good conditions. Seeds are sharply angular, slightly winged, and 1 to 2 mm long. Approximately 7,000 weigh 1 g. Seeds are spread by wind and browsing animals. Some seeds will germinate under laboratory conditions the same season in which produced, but germination from dry storage increases for 2 to 3 years, with a periodic low in November and a high in April. Over 90% germination is obtained with 2 to 3-year-old seeds in the laboratory. Germination in the field occurs in both spring and fall, and seedlings can emerge from a soil depth of 2 to 2.5 cm.