Hyphaene seeds floating

[DesertCoconut]

I bought 3 hyphaene thebaica seeds from an eBay seller in the UK. The first picture is what they looked like when I got them. I shaved and sanded down more of the remaining fibers and soaked them (second image). I know that floating is generally a sign that seeds are not viable, but is this one of the exception species? Do they just need time to get water logged? They have been soaking for about 2 days.

 

[NatureGirl]

Yes! Floating is normal for Hyphaene seeds. (They have a hollow spot in the middle if cut in half). However, if you leave in water for a week they will eventually sink. That's when I plant them, after they have sunk. 

[Jeff_Cabinda]

Here in West Africa hyphaenes  (guineensis) just grow on the beach. Probably due to dissemination by sea as mentioned. They grow very well though in tropical climate even not on the beach when planted by humans. Here is mind enjoying the start of the rain season.

[TexasColdHardyPalms]

All the hyphaene coriacea seeds i ever germinated were sinkers after i cleaned them.  I soak for 4-5 days and throw away the floaters, then keep them hot like bismarckia. Usually get 70% germination in 4 weeks. 

[Phoenikakias]

I once bought from a herb store in Egypt a completely desiccated thebaica-seed. It was supposed to be prepared for somekind of tea. Of course it was floating initially but then it sunk and eventually it sprouted. The subsequent seedling however died quickly. Freshly picked up seeds from the Aswan region however at same time under identical conditions sprouted without problem.

[TexasColdHardyPalms]

Last of the batch germinated...

[DesertCoconut]

Thanks, everybody. One of the 3 sank today!

[DesertCoconut]

Six week later.  Ta-da!

[TexasColdHardyPalms]

Sweet!  They need a deep pot, 12 absolute minimum,  20" is better.