Garcinia gardneriana (Planch. & Triana) Zappi is a native species widely distributed in

Brazil. It has ornamental features, edible fruits, and its leaves have medicinal properties; however,

its potential has not been explored. The aim of this study was to evaluate seed physiological

performance due to dormancy, desiccation and storage tolerance. Only decoated seeds

germinated. Seeds had an initial water content of 1.07 g H2O.g-1 dw and final germination of 95%.

Both desiccation to 0.67 g H2O.g-1 dw and storage at 25 °C for ninety days resulted in decreased

germination, 43 and 41%, respectively. Desiccation below 0.25 g H2O.g-1 dw and storage for ninety

days at 5 °C were lethal. A rapid decrease in enzymic protection by superoxide dismutase and

ascorbate peroxidase was correlated to desiccation sensitivity. Total polyamines content was

higher in fresh seeds and markedly decreased with desiccation. The decrease in enzyme activity

and polyamines content seems to be associated with seed viability loss. In sum, G. gardneriana

seeds have a low tolerance to desiccation and are sensitive to chilling. Therefore, the seeds can be

categorized as recalcitrant and dormant, a rare combination in terms of seed biology.