Open Access

Nathan J. Emery, Catherine A. Offord

• Persoonia (family Proteaceae) is a diverse genus of 99 species, mainly of woody shrubs and small trees, that are endemic to Australia. The fleshy fruits that characterise these plants are an important resource in otherwise resource-depauperate ecological communities. However, this genus is highly under-represented in restoration and conservation programs, as its species are notoriously difficult to propagate and transplant in the wild. Understanding the mechanisms that control seed production, viability, dormancy and germination will hasten progress on Persoonia propagation. Here we review Persoonia studies to reveal the nature of, and variability within, the genus. We identify key factors that need to be addressed; specifically, those affecting fruit set, endocarp degradation and subsequent propagation of Persoonia. This synthesis of current knowledge provides important material to inform management of this taxon in the landscape, and outlines several important priorities for future seed biology research on the genus. We outline several important priorities for future seed biology research on the genus.