An investigation into the mechanism for reduced seed yield inLotus corniculatus.

A study of seed position in the pod ofLotus corniculatus L. cv. 'Mirabel' (Fabaceae) suggested that reduced seed set after self-pollination is not due to an inability of the self-pollen tube to reach the end of the ovary. As in other cultivars, it has been demonstrated that cultivar 'Mirabel' produced less seed per pod and shorter pods after self- than after cross-pollination. No differences were noted for percent germination of seeds produced by both types of pollination indicating that the number of seeds per pod is a reliable index of the ultimate productive potential of the pollination.