Germinating seeds of Lesquerella perforata and stonensis: Substrate effects and mucilage production

Seeds of the rare annuals Lesquerella perforata Rollins and L. stonensis Rollins (Brassicaceae) germinated to higher percentages on topsoil and filter paper than on masonry sand and play sand. In addition, mucilage production was consistently less on topsoil than on the 2 types of sands. An increase in mucilage thickness was correlated with a reduction in germination. Although mucilage production has been observed under laboratory conditions, it has not been observed in nature. We recommend germinating seeds of both Lesquerella species on topsoil or filter paper for best results.