Development of embryogenic callus protocol for Brachylaena huillensis

The present investigation was conducted to explore em bryogenic potential of Brachylaena huillensis using leaves as explants. The second pair of juvenile leaves of tips of B. huillensis naturally growing seedlings were collected, sterilized and cultured on woody plant medium (WPM) containing various concentrations levels of 2, 4-D, BAP and a blend of the two phytohormones to induce embryogenic callus. For the first time, embryogenic callus was explored from leaf explants of B. huillensis in Tanzania using tissue culture techniques. The hormonal combination of BAP (5µM) and 2, 4-D (5µM) was recorded as most appropriate for high percentage (8.3 ± 3.3) of viable and healthy callus. Concentration of 5µM was the best in callus induction in the current study. Actually, the study of in vitro propagation focusing on callus induction using leaves in B. huillensis is novel; it is the corner stone for in vitro propagation for the tree species.