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How does epigeal germination differ from hypogeal germination?

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Cluster of bright red seeds emerging from the cone-shaped fruit of a magnolia grandiflora, surrounded by large, glossy green leaves. — seed Fruit and seeds of the southern magnolia (*Magnolia grandiflora*). The fruit is an aggregate of follicles, and each follicle bears a single red seed.

The primary difference between epigeal and hypogeal germination lies in whether the cotyledons emerge from the seed and are carried above the soil surface.12

Epigeal Germination (Aboveground)

In epigeal germination, the hypocotyl (the embryonic stem) elongates, pushing the cotyledons, the epicotyl, and the seed coat above the ground. Once above the surface, the cotyledons may expand and become photosynthetic, acting like leaves, or they may simply transfer stored nutrients to the seedling before degenerating. Examples include castor beans and common beans.123

Hypogeal Germination (Belowground)

In hypogeal germination, the hypocotyl remains short, and the cotyledons do not emerge from the seed. Instead, the epicotyl elongates and grows upward through the soil, while the seed and its enclosed cotyledons remain underground. In this pattern, the cotyledons serve to transfer nutritional reserves—either from themselves or from the endosperm—directly to the developing radicle and epicotyl. Examples include garden peas and garlic.123