To find out the factors causing the slow germination of Dystoenio takesimana, changes in the seed reserves during germination were investigated. The results obtained were as follows: 1. The carbohydrate in seeds of D. tokesimana was much exhausted due to respiration before germination and was not greatly exhausted during germination, which was different from the case of alfalfa or orchardgrass. 2. The protein content of seeds of D. takesimana increased in a linear pattern as germination progressed. 3. There was little change in the fat content of D. takesimana seeds during germination, while the fat content of alfalfa and orchardgrass seeds were greatly decreased. 4. It is suggested that slow germination of D. takesimana may be due to poor mobilization of seed reserves.