Abstract: In order to study the seeds physiological property, germination and seedlings growth characteristics of Tinospora capillipes Gagnep, the morphological structure of fruits, seeds and embryos were observed. Fresh seeds were cultured on MS medium added 5 mg/L gibberellin （GA）, other seeds which were preserved in sand for two and four months were cultured on MS medium without plant growth regulator for germination. The results showed that sand storage of fresh fruits and seeds in room（temperature difference between day and night>10 ℃） could break the dormancy of Tinospora capillipes Gagnep, promote the germination, and keep the seed vigor. Gibberellin treatment could break the seed dormancy effectively, and the germination rate was more than 80% after 15 d. The germination rate of the air-dried seeds after 2 months and 4 months were 20% and 10%, respectively. Therefore, the seeds of Tinospora capillipes Gagnep are not suitable for storage after air-dried. In conclusion, seeds of Tinospora capillipes Gagnep have dormant characteristics mainly because of germination inhibitor in endosperm.

Key words: Tinospora capillipes Gagnep, seed dormancy, sand storage, gibberellin, seedlings growth