Multiplication of Chrysanthemum through Somatic Embryogenesis

Tissue culture techniques are useful for ex situ conservation of rare, endemic or threatened plant species. In vitro propagation has the potential for fast multiplication of superior genotypes, allowing the exploitation of maximum genetic gain achieved in the breeding program. Somatic embryogenesis offers an alternative and efficient protocol for plant regeneration. The technique of somatic embryogenesis has also contributed information for the genetic, morphological and physiological manipulation. The objective of the present work was to standardize a protocol for multiplication of Chrysanthemum through somatic embryogenesis for the pharmaceutical purpose. Callus induction from leaf explant in MS medium containing 1.5 mg/L 2,4-D was found to be 100% and from petal explant in MS medium containing 2.0 mg/L 2,4-D was found to be 100%. The best friable calli were subjected to suspension culture in MS media supplemented with 1.0 mg/L BAP for somatic embryos. All calli in suspension gave rise to somatic embryos, which were regenerated in MS media supplemented with various concentration of BAP. The regenerated plantlets were elongated on MS media supplemented with 0.1 mg/L BAP + 2.0 mg/L KIN and rooted on MS0.