In Vitro Propagation of Endangered Temperate Himalayan Medicinal Herb Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth using Leaf Explants and Nodal Segments

The present study describes the micropropagation of Picrorhiza kurroa, (commonly known as kutki) an endangered medicinal herb of the temperate Himalayas and a source of hepatoprotective picrosides. In vitro shoot multiplication was achieved through sprouting of axillary buds using nodal segments and leaf tissue. For shoot regeneration, the hormone combinations kinetin (2.0 mg l(-1)) and Kinetin + Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) (2.0 mg l(-1) + 0.50 mg l(-1)) with leaf explant was found superior. Interestingly, the basal MS medium gave 99.94 % response (direct proliferation) with nodal explant. The medium supplemented with IBA (1.0 mg l(-1)) was found best for rooting of regenerated shoots. Nodal segments plated on the medium supplemented with TDZ + IBA (0.11 mg l(-1) + 0.50 mg l(-1)) formed somatic embryos, however further regeneration could not be achieved. The in vitro raised plantlets were hardened and successfully established in the glass house conditions.