Compositional changes in seed and embryo axis of jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) during germination and seedling emergence

The dry weight, moisture, wax compositions, simmondsins content, protein and sugar content of germinating jojoba cotyledons and developing seedling were studied. During imbibition the seed absorbed water and the moisture content increased steadily during germination. Radicles emerged after 10–15 days of germination and only at that time compositional changes in wax, and simmondsins content were determined.Wax breakdown was the main source of carbon and energy for the developing seedling, while protein reserves were the nitrogen source. The profile of the fatty acids changed through germination and esters with 20:1 fatty acid were preferentially used.Simmondsin concentration increased at the time of radicle emergence and than decreased. Ferulate derivatives almost disappeared while didemethyl simmondsin concentration decreased more slowly. Simmondsins but not the ferulate derivatives were building up in the radicle and young shoots.