To find out the factors causing the slow germination and seedling growth of Dystaenia takesimana, investigations were conducted into the seed reserves, shoot and seminal root growth of D. takesimana, alfalfa, and orchardgrass. The results obtained were as follows 1. The seminal root of D, takesimana emerged later and grew slower than those of alfalfa. 2. The dry weight of the seeds of D. takesimana slightly decreased during germination, while the seeds of alfalfa and orchardgrass greatly decreased, indicating a slower utilization of seed reserves for D. takesimana. 3. D. takesimana attains a higher root weight per 100 seedlings in the dark, however D. takesimana took much more days to reach its maximum weight than alfalfa or orchardgrass. 4. Of the three species examined the seedlings of D. takesimana shower the lowest growth rate. 5. Initially the seminal root of D. takesimana elongated slower than the shoot, while orchardgrass showed a quicker elongation of seminal root than the shoot. 6. The seedling growth could be improved by selection and breeding the strains with better germination and root growth, as the germination and growth characteristics of D. takesimana were variable.