High efficiency callus-mediated regeneration in Corynandra felina: a medicinal plant endemic to peninsular India

This study aimed to develop a reproducible protocol for high-frequency plantlet regeneration of Corynandra felina (L.f.) Cochrane & Iltis, an endemic medicinal plant of peninsular India. Leaf, petiole, and stem (internode) explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/L NAA and 0.5 mg/L BAP, resulting in maximum callus fresh weights of 428.5 ± 0.59 mg, 378.2 ± 0.69 mg, and 402.6 ± 0.39 mg, respectively. These calluses were transferred to MS medium with 0.50 mg/L thidiazuron (TDZ) and 0.25 mg/L naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), yielding maximum shoot numbers of 29.2 ± 0.84, 18.4 ± 0.57, and 22.9 ± 0.86, respectively. The obtained small shoots were further elongated successfully on medium containing 1.0 mg/L GA₃. Rooting was achieved in 97% of shoots, with an average of 42.9 ± 0.57 roots per shoot on ½ strength MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L IBA. Fully developed plantlets (R₁) were successfully acclimatized in a potting mix of sterile red soil, vermicompost, and sand (2:1:1) and exhibited a survival rate of approximately 76% under field conditions.