In Vitro Propropagation of Cymbidium lowianum Rchb.F using Immature Seeds: A Floriculturally Important Orchid

Cymbidium lowianum Rchb.f., a floriculturally important orchid was cultured in vitro on Mitra (M) and Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium using immature seeds derived from mature capsules. Plant growth regulators such as BAP (6- benzylaminopurine), NAA (?-naphthaleneacetic acid), and IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) were used either singly or in combination with or without activated charcoal (AC). The best seed germination response (85%) was observed in M medium supplemented with AC. M medium with BAP and AC induced highest leaf multiplication (6.6) in the culture while maximum rooting (6.2) was obtained in NAA supplemented M medium without AC. Complete seedlings with 2-3 leaves and 1-2 roots were successfully established in the green house after routine hardening procedures. This in vitro regeneration protocol may permit rapid propagation and conservation of this floriculturally important Cymbidium species.