Micropropagation of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. with reference to anthocyanin production in callus

An effective protocol for in vitro propagation from leaf, node and internodal explants of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. was achieved by organogenesis. Two morphologically distinct type of calli were obtained in different combinations and concentrations of auxins and cytokinins. Creamy yellowish friable calli were obtained when MS medium was supplemented with 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D), Napthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 6-Benzylamino purine (BAP). Compact green organogenic calli were obtained when MS medium was supplemented with various concentrations of NAA and BAP. Shoot formation was obtained directly from nodal explants when MS medium supplemented with various concentration of NAA. Calli derived from various explants such as leaf, node and internode showed induction of anthocyanin pigments. MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D+BAP (0.5+2.0 mg/L) and 6% sucrose showed intense pink colour anthocyanin pigmentation.