Describing seed germination in which there is considerable elongation of the hypocotyl so the cotyledons are raised above the surface of the ground to form the first leaves (seed leaves ) of the plant. Epigeal germination is seen in the sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). In some species, e.g. onion, the cotyledon is raised above ground level by the rapid growth of the cotyledon itself, rather than by extension of the hypocotyl. Compare hypogeal.
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