Trifolium repens L. (var. Regal Ladino) is among the most used species of Italian legumes as fodder
for pastures, for direct consumption, or as mowing for stocks and then pastures. The seed
integument of Trifolium repens L. has different colors ranging from light yellow to dark brown. In
this work, the physiology of germination of light-colored, light intermediate, dark and dark
intermediate seeds was studied to highlight any difference in the percentage of seed germination
and seedling development. The results showed a lower germination rate and a noticeable reduction
of the root length in dark seeds compared to light seeds. In this context, tests to exclude a
physiological dormancy of dark seeds were performed. Light microscope and scanning electron
microscope observation were conducted to detect substantial differences in the structure and
thickness of the integument and in the quality of reserves. Biochemical investigations have
evidenced that total polyphenols content is similar in all the seeds categories, while higher amount
of total flavonoids was detected in dark seeds. Total Polyphenols and flavonoids content decreased
during germination in all seed groups
