Abstract

Senegalia macrostachya is a valuable native plant species facing natural regeneration challenges due to pests and overharvesting. This study evaluates seed germination and seedling early growth based on provenance, maturity stage and seeds number of fruits. Fruits were collected from four sites across two climatic zones, considering two maturity stages (full and medium maturity) and four fruit types (2 to 5 seeded fruit). The seeds were weighed and the water content was measured before germination trials in alluvial sand and composite soil. Germination was recorded every two days, and from 65 days after sowing, seedlings growth was measured biweekly for 145 days. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. The seed weighted between 0.27 ± 0.02 g and 0.45 ± 0.02 g and varied significantly (p< 0.001) between the provenances and fruit types. Seeds with a lower water content (6.93 ± 0.33 %) had the highest germination rates. The rate of germination varied significantly (p< 0.001) according to substrate and treatment. Mature fruits, Sissili from sudanian climate zone provenance and 2-seed fruits exhibited the highest germination rates (73 ±15.45 %, 73± 5.79 % and 90 ± 9.52 %, respectively). The seedlings reached 6.93 mm collar diameter and 60.8 cm height of 145 days after emergence, with significant growth (p˂ 0.001) every two weeks. Mature fruits, Sissili provenance, and 5-seed fruits produced the most vigorous seedlings. Leaves and branches numbers varied over time but not according to treatment. Root biomass allocation was low compared to above-ground biomass. These findings provide insight for promoting Senegalia macrostachya cultivation through optimal seed selection in natural stands.