Epigeal germination is characterized by
Epigeal germination involves substantial elongation of hypocotyl forming hook that pushes cotyledons above soil surface where they expand, become green, foliaceous and photosynthetic, as observed in common bean, castor and sunflower. Hypocotyl protective arch prevents plumule damage. In hypogeal germination epicotyl elongates, cotyledons remain underground serving as storage as in pea, gram and maize. Endosperm persistence unrelated to germination type, both show hypocotyl growth but magnitude differs. Epigeal strategy favours rapid autotrophy in open habitats with limited seed reserves and is
Ref: NCERT Class 11 Biology, Seed germination epigeal hypogeal; Bewley Seed Germination textbook