Callogenesis potential of cotyledonary explants of Althaea rosea L. from Pakistan

The purpose of this study was to optimize conditions for callogenesis and organogenesis of Althea rosea using cotyledonary explants. Varying concentrations solo and in combinations of auxins and cytokinins listing IAA. NAA, 2, 4 D, IB.A, BAP and Kinetin were experimented. Among solo auxins, maximum Callus Index (Cl= 560) was obtained at 0.03mg/L 2, 4-D after 10 days of initiation. Among cytokinins, 8 mg/L and 10mg/L BAP exhibited good callogenic response (CI= 320). Combinations of BAP+ NAA 4:3.Omg/L and BAP + 2, 4 D 4:0.03 mg/L were found better (CI= 480). Morphological characters of calls were also observed including health, color and texture. This protocol can be exploited to fulfill ornamental, medicinal and industrial demand of A. rosea through the latest technique of tissue culture.