Env Exp Biol (2014) 12: 149–153

In vitro studies on Vitex negundo, a potent medicinal plant

Abstract

An efficient plant regeneration protocol for in vitro propagation of Vitex negundo L., an important medicinal plant, was developed using mature nodal explants. Multiple shoot formation was significantly influenced by growth regulators, carbon source and type of solidifying agent used. Among the various combinations used, Murashige and Skoog medium with 2.0 mg L^–1 6-benzylaminopurine + 0.5 mg L^–1 α-naphthalene acetic acid, containing 25% sugarcane juice and 0.8% agar, exhibited highest bud-forming capacity (93.3%) with maximum number of formed shoots per explant (4.14). Maximum root induction response (66.6%) was observed on Murashige and Skoog half strength semisolid medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L^–1 indole-3-butyric acid. The regenerated plantlets were successfully transferred to pots containing sterilized soil and sand (3:1) mixture and acclimatized with >70% survival rate under field conditions.