In-vitro Stigma Like Structure and Stigma Development in Saffron

In-vitro Stigma Like Structure and Stigma Development in Saffron

Crocus sativus L. is the costliest known spice and is produced only in some parts of the world that too in low quantities. Due to restricted geographical distribution the expansion in area for its production is rare possibility. Hence production of saffron under in-vitro conditions independent of geographical location is the best alternative. In present study stigma like structures and stigma have been produced under in-vitro conditions using ovary as explant with different phytohormone combinations on G-5 media. Ovaries were cultured on media supplemented with different combinations of phytohormones. Stigma-like structures and stigma appeared on cultured ovaries. Stigma like structures having high potential for apocarotenoid biosynthesis were observed on G-5 media supplemented with 27μM NAA & 44.4 μM BA. Direct stigma having apocarotenoids at par with natural stigma were obtained on G-5 media supplemented with 0.5 mgL-1 BAP, 0.1 mgL-1 NAA & 0.5 mgL-1 2,4-D using half ovary as an explant. Present study is the first report on development of apocarotenoid rich SLS with very high frequency of SLS development and development of direct stigma under in -vitro conditions.