Abstract

Acacia auriculiformis is a multipurpose leguminous tree of medicinal forestry importance. This plant is gaining importance because of its spermicidal and anti-HIV properties along with safe to use on vaginal epithelium. Clonal propagation of this pharmacologically important tree species via in vitro micropropagation is a prerequisite because propagation through seed route can otherwise lead to segregational loss of desirable traits. In the present study, multiple shoot induction was achieved from nodal stem segments of mature trees. Murashige and Skoog (1962) media (MS) fortified with or without phytohormones were evaluated for their suitability to support shoot induction, shoot multiplication and root formation. Highest percentage of multiple shoot induction was achieved on MS + BAP (2 mg/L) + NAA (0.1 mg/L). Elongated shoots showed best rooting response on ½ MS basal, when compared to other treatments imposed. Use of coco peat as hardening medium resulted in maximum survival (75%) during hardening phase. In the present study, simple and efficient in vitro micropropagation of the woody cum medicinal tree that is,  A. auriculiformis was achieved following direct organogenesis pathway of plant regeneration.

Key words: Acacia auriculiformis, in vitro micropropagation, nodal stem, direct organogenesis.