In Vitro Propagation of “Salsaparrilha” [Herreria salsaparrilha Mart. (Asparagaceae)]: An Antisyphilitic Medicinal Species

An efficient procedure for in vitro propagation of Herreria salsaparrilha Martius was established from single-node explants (fourth and fifth nodes from apex to the base) derived from donor plants maintained under shading-house conditions. After surface sterilization, explants are inoculated in test tubes containing 15 mL of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium without growth regulators. Cultures are maintained under 35 μmol m−2 s−1 irradiance, a 16/8-h light/dark light regime, at 26 ± 2 °C. The subcultures are carried out under the same conditions, adding 6-benzyladenine 1.0 mg/L and Phytagel® 2.8 g/L. Shoots are elongated and rooted by transferring individual shoots to half-strength MS medium without growth regulators. After 25–30 days, elongated rooted shoots are transferred to plastic pots containing 25–30 mL of sterile distilled water, covered with a transparent plastic bag, and kept under the same growth room conditions for 2 days. Plants are transferred to cups containing autoclaved and washed sand and kept in a shading house (50% light interception) for acclimatization. True-to-type adult plants were successfully recovered under ex vitro conditions.