The aim of this research was to characterize morphologically internal and external structures of Drimys brasiliensis Miers fruits and seeds. In order to describe the fruits, internal and external details related to texture, consistency, pilosity, brightness, shape and number of seeds per fruit were observed. Shedding was observed as well. Some external aspects of the seeds were analyzed including size, color, texture, consistency, shape, hilum and micropyle position. The following internal characteristics were observed the presence or absence of endosperm and cotyledon, embryo axes and plumule type, shape and color. The heart, torpedo and mature stages were identified during embryo development. The fruits of D. brasiliensis are multiple, free, constituted by five little fruits, indehiscence and polispermic. The seeds are kedney form and they have great amount of endosperm, and they present dormancy for embryonic immaturity.
forest specie; fruits and seeds morphology; embrionary development
