Paclobutrazol-induced augmented productivity of an endangered medicinal plant safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant. et Fernand.)

Abstract

In the present investigation an attempt was made to improve productivity of safed musli by using paclobutrazol (PBZ), a potent growth regulating chemical having promising influence on tuber yield. Foliar application with 100 and 200 µg ml-1 of PBZ was found to improve plant potential of safed musli and this was measured in terms of some reliable physio-biochemical parameters along with some selective yield attributes. Our results showed that the foliar application of PBZ reduced plant height, increased number of branches and leaves per plant. PBZ-induced enhanced growth parameters were associated with augmented metabolic status of the plant species as evidenced from higher chlorophyll and protein contents, significantly enhanced catalase along with reduced protease activities in leaves. The positive influence of PBZ was also recorded from the yield attributes as evidenced from the increased number and fresh weight of tubers per plant as well as length and circumference of the tubers, in comparison to control ones. Thus, it can be concluded that the PBZ may be used as a potent chemical for augmented productivity of this high-value endangered plant.