Indian Journal of Plant Physiology

An efficient, rapid and large scale in vitro multiplication protocol was developed for the medicinally potent climber Trichosanthes cucumerina L. of family Cucurbitaceae. Various factors like source of explant and its age, nutrition and hormonal supplement have been found to affect morphogenesis of T. cucumerina. 8 days old cotyledonary node without cotyledon was found to be most efficient explant in regard to multiple shooting. The highest regeneration frequency of 61.1(20.3 shoots/explant) was found with White's media supplemented with 0.1mg/l kinetin and 2mg/l BAP. Although roots were induced on MS basal medium, but frequency was increased when supplemented with either IAA or IBA. Regenerated plants were successfully acclimatized and about 40% plantlets survived under ex vitro conditions. They flowered, fruited and were morphologically uniform and identical to donor plants.