Abstract: 【Objective】 The research aimed to explore the seed dormancy characteristics of Archangelica decurrens Ledeb.and find out the method of breaking dormancy, so as to provide scientific basis for the protection, development and utilization of germplasm resources of this species. 【Methods】 With wild seeds of A.decurrens as research materials, the basic biological characteristics of fruits and seeds and seed germination inhibitors were studied by laboratory control experiments, and the effects of cold stratification treatment and gibberellin treatment with different concentrations and time on the germination rate, germination potential and germination index of seeds were analyzed. 【Results】 The seed coat did not hinder the water absorption of the seeds; the seed powder extract had a significant inhibitory effect on the seed germination and seedling growth of Brassica pekinensis; 30-50 d cold stratification treatment could significantly improve the seed germination rate of A.decurrens; seed embryo development was incomplete when fruit morphologically matured, and cold stratification could promote seed embryo development; seed soaking with 3,000 mg/L gibberellin for 24 h could significantly increase the seed germination rate to 72.00%. 【Conclusion】 The seed dormancy of A.decurrens is the morphophysiological dormancy caused by the combined action of germination inhibitor in the seed and incomplete embryo development.The seeds were cold stratified for 30-50 d before sowing or using 2000-4000 mg/L gibberellin soaking the seeds for 24 h can effectively break seed dormancy and promote seed germination.