Seed set in Lotus berthelotii Masferrer

Self-pollination in L. berthelotii results in a very low seed set and so the species is considered to be self-incompatible. Pollen tubes have been observed in the ovary. The situation is complicated because ovules in individual ovaries possess embryo sacs at various stages of development from two-celled to eight-celled and this must affect the numbers of seeds which set. Successful pollination requires rupture of the stigmatic cuticle. The conservation of L. berthelotii by seed propagation is possible but the genetic base of the species remains restricted.