In Vitro Propagation Strategies for The Medicinal Herb, Ruellia Tuberosa L. (Acanthaceae)

An efficient in vitro plant regeneration protocol was established by using immature leaf let derived callus of Ruellia tuberosa L., through tissue culture technology. Leaf explants inoculated on MS medium supplemented with TDZ (1.5 mgL⁻¹) and NAA (0.2 mgL⁻¹) were produced high frequency of callus (87%). Greater shoot formation (86%) was obtained in the MS medium containing IBA (2.0 mgL⁻¹) and TDZ (0.3 mgL⁻¹). The elongated shoots subcultured on half strength MS medium supplemented with IBA (2.0 mgL⁻¹) and Kn (0.4 mgL⁻¹) produced high frequency of roots (77% shoots initiated roots). Rooted plantlets were hardened and successfully established in soil. The field established plants were morphologically normal and fertile.