ABSTRACT(Soil quality aff ects seed germination and seedling development of Dimorphandra mollis: Benth. (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae)). Th e exploitative collection of Dimorphandra mollis fruits by farmers has negatively aff ected the natural population dynamics of this species. Th e aim of this study was to compare the eff ects of three soil types (Cerrado sand soil, Cerrado clay soil and dry forest soil) on seed germination and seedling development of D. mollis. Th e seeds of D. mollis showed greater germinability in Cerrado sand soil (60.5%), followed by Cerrado clay soil (29.7%) and dry forest soil (13.6%). Th e seedling root growth in Cerrado sand soil was higher compared to Cerrado clay soil and dry forest soil. However, no diff erences were verifi ed for root dry mass between the soil treatments. Th e seedlings of D. mollis cultivated in dry forest soil presented a higher growth rate and total dry mass. Th ese results are probably associated with higher nutrient availability, which was verifi ed in the dry forest soil when compared to the Cerrado soils. Our results indicate that D. mollis seeds need a low water-retaining substrate to increase the germination rate and that seedlings develop better in nutrient-rich soils. A qualidade do solo afeta a germinação das sementes e o desenvolvimento das plântulas de Dimorphandra mollis Benth...