In Vitro Propagation of Heliconia psittacorum by Bud Culture

Abstract

A protocol was developed for in vitro propagation of Heliconia psittacorum L.f. by culture of terminal and axillary buds of rhizomes. Cultures were initiated on modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 40 μm BA, 150 ml coconut water/liter, 30 g sucrose/liter, and 2 g Gelrite/liter. Shoot multiplication was achieved on the above medium without coconut water, but supplemented with 10 μm BA. Shoots were rooted on MS basal medium and successfully acclimated to greenhouse conditions. Chemical names used: N-(phenylmethyl)-1 H-purin-6-amine (BA).