In Vitro Propagation of Ceropegia anjanerica Malpure et al.: A Rare Endemic Plant from Maharashtra

Abstract

An in vitro micropropagation system has been developed for the Ceropegia anjanerica Malpure et al., a rare endemic plant species having ornamental as well as medicinal potential but a limited reproductive capacity. Axillary bud explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 6-Benzylaminopurine, Thidiazuron and 6-Furfurylaminopurine along with combination of Indole-3-Butyric Acid. Although all concentrations showed multiple shoot formation, the best results (8.0 ± 0.5) were achieved with MS + 6-Benzylaminopurine (8.87 µM) + 6-Furfurylaminopurine (18.58 µM). Half strength Murashige and Skoog medium fortified with Indole-3-Acetic Acid (8.56 µM) showed good rooting response (4.0 ± 0.7). Well grown plantlets hardened, acclimatized and established in greenhouse exhibited 78 % survival.