This study aimed to characterize biometrical seeds and fruits of Hymenaea courbaril L., determine the moisture content and assess different treatments to overcome dormancy. Fruit biometry, mass of fruits and seeds, and the number of seeds per fruit were determined. The seeds were submitted to the following treatments: 1-control, without cutting or scarification, 2-scarification on three sides, 3-cut in half and 4-cut in four parts. The percentage of emergence, emergence speed index, length of the buds and root of seedlings were also evaluated. So, the seeds were submitted to overcome dormancy, with and without soaking in water, represented by the following treatments: I-scarification on the opposite side of the hilum, II-scarification on one lateral side; III-scarification on two lateral sides; IV-scarification on one lateral side and on the opposite side of the hilum, V-scarification on two lateral sides and on the opposite side to hilum; VI-control without scarification. The length, width, diameter and the average mass of fruit were 115.7 mm; 62.18 mm, 43.8 mm and 183.85 g, respectively. For the determination of moisture, the seed should be cut in at least two parts. Scarification, regardless of position in seed, with or without soaking in water, allows greater physiological quality.
Hymenaea courbaril; forestry species; seedling emergence