Abstract: The development of the embryo and endosperm of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn can be summarized as follows: 1. Embryogenesis of N. nucifera belongs to Solanad type; the 1st mitotic division of the zygote takes place later than that of the primary endosperm nucleus. 2. The development of endosperm basically conforms to the Helobial endosperm. After fertilization, the primary endosperm nucleus divides first transversely. This division results in the formation of two cells. The wall of this division is a little oblique to the longitudinal axis of the embryo sac. In accordance with the character of the endospermic development, it can be divided into, three stages: (1) two-celled endosperm stage, (2) multicellular endosperm stage, and (3) the stage of the endospermic nutrition being absorbed and cells atrophy. The developments of the embryo and endosperm are well correlated. This relation is relatively stable. 3. The cotyledons of the mature embryo are comparatively developed, but the radicle is extremely reduced. 4. As the seed is ripening, a thin membrane remains outside the plumule, which is the remainder of the endosperm. Therefore, the seed of N. nucifera is exalbuminous.

Key words: Nelumbo nucifera, Development of embryo, Endosperm