[Tissue culture and rapid propagation of Trichosanthes kirilowii]

To study tissue culture of Trichosanthes kirilowii, and establish the technique of rapid propagation.

Cluster buds were induced from stem tip and stem with axillary bud, calluses were induced from stems and leaves.

Cluster buds could be induced on both the bud and axillary bud from 2-years-old tuber of Trichosanthes kirilowii with MS medium containing 2 mg/L BA and 0.5 -0.05 mg/L NAA. The roots could be induced with MS + 0.1 mg/L NAA + 0.2 mg/L IBA. The seedling with roots could be transplanted after domestication, and achieved the rapid seedling propagation. Calluses could be induced from the stems and leaves with MS + 4 mg/L BA + 0.5 mg/L NAA, and the calluses then could be differentiated into seedlings without root.

The male and female seedlings of Trichosanthes kirilowii can be propagated largely using stem tip or axillary bud in short period. The technique of rapid propagation on Trichosanthes kirilowii have a high benefit and low costs.