Acta Univ Latv (2008) 745: 37–41

The embryogenesis and development of newly obtained interspecific lily hybrids in vitro

Abstract

Interspecific hybridization is the most important source for variation in ornamental breeding. Tissue culture methods are used to overcome fertilization barriers in these hybrids. The aim of the present study was to establish a microcultivation system for explanted zygotic embryos of lilies from interspecific crossings of Asiatic, Oriental, Trumpet hybrids and Lilium longiflorum in different combinations and their backcross derivatives based on the embryo rescue method. Five combinations of lily crosses in 2002, and 11 of 16 combinations in 2004 gave positive results, although with different percent of germination and embryo survival.