Characteristics of seed material and seedlings of Conium maculatum L.

Abstract

Summary Introduction: Fresh herbs of poison hemlock (Conii maculati herba) are used in homeopathy. The plant is also used in pharmacological and toxicological studies. There are few articles on seed germination capability in available literature. Objective: The aim of the research was evaluation of Conium maculatum seed germination. Methods: Germination studies of C. maculatum L. were carried out according to methodology by ISTA. Results: It was confirmed that the germination capability of the described species is dependent on access to light and temperature fluctuations. In the first year after harvest, the highest percentage of germinating seeds was found in the winter months (January–February). Conclusion: The seeds stored in an unheated room still germinated in the fifth year after harvest.