 In order to optimize germination and growth of this perennial legume and increase its importance in the food market, germination behavior of untreated "Tylosema esculentum" seeds compared to seeds undergoing various dormancy-breaking treatments was investigated.The results indicated that seed germination was greatest when scratching and cracking of the seed coat with sandpaper, also known as mechanical scarification, was applied.Other types of scarification include immersion of seed in water or acid.