Rapid and mass multiplication of Oldenlandia umbellata L. from the leaf explants through callus culture

Abstract

Oldenlandia umbellata L. (Rubiaceae), commonly called as 'Indian Madder', is well known for its dyeing property in addition to medicinal values. This plant is used to extract red dye from its matured roots. Due to diversification and exploitation of this plant for medicinal and dyeing purposes, a simple and reproducible protocol has been established through callus culture in the present study. The leaf explants were cultured aseptically on MS medium nourished with 5-25µM IAA, IBA, NAA or 2,4-D for callus induction. The best response was achieved with 10µM NAA. Higher frequency of sprouting (65 shoots, 98% frequency and 9.5cm length) was observed on MS medium with the combination of 6µM BAP and 2µM KIN. Rooting of isolated shoots was best at 6µM IBA (27 roots, 100% frequency, and 6.5cm length). The well rooted plants were transferred to paper cups containing FYM, red soil and sand in the ratio of 1:2:1 for hardening. Then they were transferred to the field for acclimatization.