Germination and seedling responses of ten safflower genotypes (Shiraz, Isfahan28, Golsefid, Kose, Isfahan 14, IL.111, Kashan, Arak2811, Mex.2-138 and Mex.22-191) to salinity stress levels (0, 5, 10 and 15 dSm-1 of NaCl solutions) evaluated in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) base factorial design with three replicates in Petri dishes. Results of analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences among evaluated genotypes which showed high genetic diversity and the effectiveness of selection of superior genotypes for salt tolerance. Salt stress affected significantly on germination rate, root length, shoot length, fresh weight and dry weight of evaluated seedlings. Seedling growth parameters were affected by salt stress particularly at 10 and 15 dSm-1. Among the tested cultivars, Golsefid and Isfahan14 could be considered as salt tolerant as possessing higher germination percentage and better seedling growth under salinity stress. On the other hand, IL.111 performed inferior to said aspects and was the most susceptible cultivar to salinity stress.
