Seed dormancy types in 129 native Asteraceae from Korea: Focus on non-deep physiological dormancy

This study investigated seed dormancy characteristics in 129 native Asteraceae species preserved in the Korea National Arboretum Seed Bank. Seeds were assessed for initial germination percentage, viability (TTC staining), and temperature responsiveness. Based on germination, species were grouped into non-dormancy, putative dormancy, and dormancy, with 57 species classified as non-dormancy and the remainder showing degrees of non-deep physiological dormancy (PD). Dormancy species were further assigned to six categories of non-deep PD according to their germination responses across temperature regimes. Distinct physiological patterns were observed, including cold oriented germination (Types 2 and 5), broad thermal tolerance (Types 3 and 6), and, rarely, high temperature-oriented patterns (Types 1 and 4). These patterns demonstrate diverse adaptive strategies within the family, linking germination timing to seasonal climates in temperate environments. This study represents the first large-scale application of a structured dormancy classification to Korean native Asteraceae and highlights inter- and intra-generic variation in dormancy strategies. The findings provide essential baseline data for seed conservation, ecological restoration, and ex situ propagation.